The Antwerp Chamber of Commerce spotlight for March is The Antwerp Pit Stop in Antwerp, Ohio
Christy and Tony DeLong are the owners of the Pit Stop. It all began with a phone call and the opportunity to purchase a business. Tony and Christy discussed the idea and then set the papers aside for awhile. Then Gene Mosier from National Oil and Gas came and asked for a chance to meet with them and discuss things in more detail. That was the moment for Christy when faith kicked in and it felt like the right time to take a chance and things began to fall into place.
Christy and Tony began the business with zero knowledge about what it takes to run a gas station and convenience store. Previously Christy had worked as a dental hygienist for 15 years. The last 19 years of owning the business has proven to be challenging as well as rewarding and Christy is most positive of the impact they have had on the local economy and the relationships they have been able to build with their customers.
The business, originally the Shell Station, became known as the Antwerp Pit Stop. A gas station and convenience store that is a one stop destination for fuel, a variety of snacks and even a delicious pizza emerged as a result of that decision. The station features multiple fuel pumps for various fuel types which makes it convenient for customers that have different fuel needs. The convenience store is well stocked with everyday essentials, snacks, beverages hot and cold and other convenience items.
Our hometown locally owned and operated gas station is best known for its beer cave and its pizza. Being locally owned the Pit Stop adds a special touch to the community, distinguishing itself from larger, corporate chains. Customers often appreciate knowing that their purchases contribute directly to our local economy and that Christy and Tony regularly give back to the community through donations to various community functions, sports team sponsorships as well as being very active within the community. These things are what set the Pit Stop aside as our only locally owned gas station in the village of Antwerp.
The friendly and approachable staff members work hard to keep that sense of community connection alive. They work hard to keep a clean and well maintained gas station and convenience store and that makes a positive impression within the community. Gas discounts are available through programs that they participate in such as Marathon Rewards and Get Upside. Customers return to the Pit Stop because of the convenient location, competitive pricing and the wide range of products offered in the store. The staff does their best to make sure customers find what they are looking for.
The Antwerp Pit Stop serves the Antwerp community as well as people traveling through town and many from across the state line. The best way that a customer can improve their experience when they visit the store is if you don’t find what you are looking for, please ask the staff. Chances are that they may be able to work with any of one of their remarkable vendors to get this item into your hands.
Congratulations to Christy and Tony on serving the Antwerp Community for the last 19 years. Your dedication to the Village of Antwerp and the surrounding communities is obvious in the care that you take with your customers, your staff and the business community of Antwerp.
The Antwerp Chamber of Commerce is excited to partner with The Antwerp Pit Stop in the growth of Antwerp and the surrounding community.
