Harpinder Brar, a business owner operating gas stations, grocery stores, and other ventures across Saskatchewan and Manitoba, is raising awareness about the increasing pressures on local retail operators and essential service businesses in Canada. She emphasizes that many people underestimate the daily operational demands small business owners face, from rising costs to long hours.
According to Innovation, Science and Economic Development Canada, small businesses represent more than 98 percent of all employer businesses in Canada and employ over 10 million people nationwide. However, these operators continue to grapple with rising expenses tied to fuel, transportation, inventory, staffing, and utilities. Retail industry data further shows that over half of small business owners work more than 50 hours per week, and independent retailers face ongoing increases in operating costs. Repeat customers remain a key indicator of long-term stability, and community spending at local businesses helps circulate money back into regional economies.
Brar stresses that consistency and accountability are foundational to sustainable operations. "You have to be present," she says. "If you ignore things, they fall apart." She notes that gas stations and grocery stores operate in fast-paced environments where reliability is crucial—customers depend on stocked shelves, clean spaces, efficient service, and stable operations. "You cannot expect quick results," Brar adds. "You just keep showing up."
One major misconception, according to Brar, is that success happens automatically once a business opens. "A lot of people only see the customer side," she explains. "They don't see the planning, staffing, inventory, or problem-solving happening every day." Her own businesses rely on structured systems, repeat customer trust, and consistent standards. "I believe in doing things properly, even when no one is watching," she says.
Rather than advocating for large campaigns, Brar encourages individuals to make small, practical decisions that positively impact local businesses. She suggests supporting local businesses regularly, treating frontline workers with patience and respect, leaving honest positive reviews for dependable businesses, recognizing consistency and reliability in customer service, and understanding the pressures small operators face behind the scenes. "You don't have to do something dramatic," Brar says. "Small actions matter more than people realize."
Brar's leadership style has evolved through experience managing operations across both provinces. "I have become more practical and direct over time," she says. "Consistency solves more problems than emotion." She believes long-term stability comes from structure, discipline, and accountability rather than short-term trends. "If you keep showing up and handling responsibilities properly, the business becomes stronger over time," she adds.
Harpinder Brar is encouraging individuals to support the businesses they rely on every day by making more intentional local choices, practicing patience with frontline workers, and recognizing the work behind essential community services. She also encourages people to share these conversations within their own communities and support dependable local businesses through simple, consistent actions. "Responsibility matters," Brar says. "That applies to business owners and communities alike."
