From service stations to success – the Goodchild Enterprises Journey with Capricorn

Rex Goodchild, the man behind Goodchild Enterprises, reflects on a remarkable journey spanning nearly four decades as a Capricorn Member and over 30 years as a Preferred Supplier.

A humble beginning

Rex’s introduction to Capricorn began with his ownership of a fuel business, which included three service stations. "One of the Capricorn reps came and saw us, and we joined as a Member, and that was all good," Rex recalls. This initial membership was the first step in what would become a long-standing relationship. Soon after, Goodchild Enterprises expanded its portfolio by adding Apollo batteries to its range of products.

The battery business, however, was initially a small sideline. It wasn’t until Frank O’Connor, a Capricorn General Manager, approached Rex with an opportunity that the business truly began to take off. "Frank came to us one day and said that he has been doing some research in the marketplace, and a lot of the Members were saying they were changing over to buy from Goodchild because the pricing was good and the service was good," Rex explains. Frank saw potential in the family-run business and invited Rex to become a Capricorn Preferred Supplier. It was a pivotal moment that Rex describes as "an absolute privilege."

Growing Together

The partnership between Goodchild Enterprises and Capricorn has flourished over the years, with both organisations benefiting from mutual growth. "The battery business was just a small sideline of our business," Rex says, "but it's grown so big today. And it's unbelievable when, you know, there's a lot of people within Capricorn that have been involved in that growth."

Rex is quick to acknowledge the support Capricorn has provided throughout this journey. "We wouldn't have grown where we are today if we hadn't had Capricorn. It opened a lot of doors for us," he notes. Today, Goodchild Enterprises is a well-respected name within the Capricorn community, and Rex attributes this success to their commitment to old-fashioned customer service. "Our philosophies are still probably a bit old fashioned, but we're trying not to lose that," he says.

A family legacy

Goodchild Enterprises is truly a family business, now entering its third generation with Rex’s grandson joining the team. "I have a good grandson who's magical in sales," Rex proudly shares. "He's well educated, went to school, and just wants to work here with his grandad." The family dynamic at Goodchild Enterprises is a testament to the strong values and commitment that have driven the business’s success.

Celebrating together

As Capricorn celebrates its 50th anniversary, Rex is keen to express his gratitude and admiration for the organisation. "To Capricorn, thank you and congratulations on 50 years because what Capricorn’s done is unbelievable from where it's come from ‘till today," he says. Reflecting on the journey we have shared, Rex sees the relationship as one of mutual benefit. "It's all about mutual growth. We grow together, don’t we? Your success is our success," he adds.

Summing things up, Rex is expressed his heartfelt gratitude for the role that Capricorn has played in his professional life by saying “Thank you very much for being a part of it.”