• Fresh
  • Clean
  • In Motion
  • Quality
  • Focused
  • Practical
  • Sustainable
  • Adaptable
  • Push Envelope
  • Looking toward future
  • Fun
  • Cutting Edge
  • Innovative

How it All Started

Redwood Oil Company was started by Peter Van Alyea in Marin County in 1972 with 1 Redwood Oil station. Over the years, it expanded into a wholesale business (fuels and lubes) and 20 Convenience Stores (C-stores), including 10 Aztec Grill (with our latest addition of Central Ukiah at Perkins). 19 stores are branded Chevron and located in nearly all communities in the Redwood Empire. Our Petroleum Maintenance division constructs and maintains all of our Stations. The Aztec Division operates the restaurants inside 10 of our 20 stations.

Rewood Oil Company, Company Photo, group of employees

Founder and President

Peter Van Alyea, Owner of Redwood Oil Company

Peter Van Alyea received his Undergraduate degree in Economics from Colby College. After 3 years in the Navy, Peter received an MBA from University of Chicago. He spent 6 years in the Marketing Department at Standard Oil Company in Illinois before he realized the source of his restlessness.

With his meager life savings in his pocket and the inspiration to be the master of his own future, he moved to California and bought a station in Fairfax, California in Marin County. He can be spotted regularly at the Fairgrounds Chevron Aztec Grill with either a Chicken Quesadilla or a few Pork $1 Tacos.

FAQ's

Are you owned by Chevron?

No. We own, operate and control all of our facilities. We are an independent marketer for Chevron. This means we fly their flag while maintaining certain service/cleanliness/quality levels that meet Chevron standards. We also buy our fuel exclusively from Chevron.

How long have you been in business?

Peter Van Alyea bought his first gas station in Fairfax, California in Marin County in 1972. He was the station attendant, pumping gas for customers at $0.30 a gallon.

How has the industry changed since 1972?

This industry has changed dramatically. In 1972, gas was cheap, we were full service and the Convenience Store concept had not caught on yet. In the 80’s, "Pay at the Pump" technology really changed the face of our retail landscape. When Peter started in this business with 1 station and a small kiosk store he was quoted as saying "I will never stock anything I can't count 3 times in one day". Now, it is nearly impossible to be profitable in this business if you do not have a Convenience Store associated with your gas pumps, where 50% of the profits are derived.

How many stations do you own and operate? How many employees do you have?

Currently, we own and operate 20 Gas Stations/Convenience stores. We maintain about 230 full and part time employees throughout our stations and corporate office.

Do you have a fleet card available to businesses as well as individuals? Do you provide discounts on fuel for Fleet Customers who fill up at your station?

We do! For qualifying companies and individuals, you can apply through us for a Chevron Business Credit card which tracks fuel consumption and miles per gallon (mpg).

What is your affiliation with Redwood Coast Petroleum?

We are a customer of Redwood Coast Petroleum. They haul the fuel to our stations.