Family-run service station doubles staff after £1.2m revamp

Abbiecraig Services in Fife has doubled headcount and reported a “successful” first six months of trading following a £1.2 million overhaul to enhance its offering.

Abbiecraig Services now has a Spar, Costa Express and Subway.

The family-run Freuchie business, located along the A92, secured the seven-figure funding package from Royal Bank of Scotland to demolish an existing petrol station and create new premises offering a 24-hour fuel service.

The revamp included the addition of franchises such as a Spar supermarket, Costa Express coffee facilities and Subway sandwiches.

Abbiecraig, which operates a sister service station in Dingwall, said it has seen a “steady increase” in footfall since opening the new site to the public last summer. It has also doubled staff headcount, creating ten jobs during the past six months.

Elaine Cunningham, who operates Abbiecraig Services with her husband Steve, said: “We have been overwhelmed by the positive reception from the local community and we’re pleased that the ­introduction of popular ­franchises has attracted new customers through our doors.

“It was reassuring to have guidance and understanding [from Royal Bank of Scotland] to help us realise our ambitions.”

Tom Garner, relationship manager at RBS, said that Abbiecraig Services had become “an important hub in Freuchie” following the extensive refurbishment.

He added: “Elaine and Steve have shown commitment to the business and the local community alike, so it is rewarding to see their efforts pay off.”