HEATH, Ohio -- A new chapter is set to begin at Englefield Oil, Ohio’s largest privately owned, company-operated chain of convenience stores. The 51-year-old chain, which operates 130 Duchess Shoppes and quick-serve restaurants has selected Greg Ehrlich, a 25-year industry veteran, to fill the position of vice president of retail sales created by the pending retirement of Ed Stephens. Also in a new key leadership position is Christopher Beem, who was selected to fill the position of chief financial officer after the retirement of Fred Kaseman.
“We can’t wait to get Chris and Greg working together. Collectively they bring energy, experience and abilities that will challenge us to rethink everything from strategy to execution,” said co-president Bill Englefield IV. “Englefield Oil is a very strong company, and we are extremely proud of our past. We don’t expect to make any dramatic changes, but I am sure there will be some very thoughtful, strategic and tactical shifts that will strengthen our company and make the Duchess Shoppes an even more attractive place to work and shop.”
Ehrlich began his career in the convenience store business in 1986 as a full-service attendant with Massachusetts-based Best Petroleum, operator and supplier to 40 Munchies Place convenience stores and gas stations. Over a 12 years period, he has served in a variety of positions, including store manager, division manager, environmental compliance officer, marketing director and ultimately vice president of operations. In 1999, Greg left the industry to complete his MBA before joining A.T. Kearney, a leading strategy and operations consulting firm. Greg rejoined the industry full time in 2006 serving as COO at another large Midwest chain operator until 2010, at which time he launched Convevo Partners, a strategy, operations and marketing consultancy.
When Beem joined Englefield Oil, he brought with him 16 years of experience as a successful finance executive, including a wealth of knowledge in accounting, strategic planning, credit, treasury and IT organization. Chris is a graduate of The Ohio State University with a Bachelor of Science degree in accounting and marketing. His previous experience as vice president controller at Jo-Ann Stores Inc. and various positions with Limited Inc. brands brings national retail expertise and perspective to Englefield Oil Co.
Bill Englefield III started Englefield Oil Co. in 1961 with three service stations and an office in the basement of his home. Today, Heath, Ohio-based Englefield Oil Co. is owed by his sons F. W. (Bill) Englefield IV and Ben Englefield. Englefield Oil operates 130 Duchess Shoppe stores throughout Ohio and West Virginia, employing 1,500 people with annual sales of more than $1 billion. The company distributes BP, Marathon and Valero Fuels, and Shell and Pennzoil motor oil and lubricants. In addition, the company operates Taco Bell, Subway and Long John Silver restaurants and offers its famous Duchess Deli, made-fresh deli sandwiches and subs.
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