Harpinder Brar, a business owner operating gas stations, grocery stores, and other ventures across Saskatchewan and Manitoba, is advocating for increased respect and support for local essential businesses. In a recent statement, Brar emphasized the often-overlooked challenges that small business owners face daily, from rising costs to long working hours.
According to Innovation, Science and Economic Development Canada, small businesses represent over 98 percent of all employer businesses in Canada and employ more than 10 million people nationwide. Despite their critical role, many operators grapple with escalating expenses tied to fuel, transportation, inventory, staffing, and utilities. Retail industry data further reveals that over half of small business owners work more than 50 hours per week, while independent retailers face year-over-year increases in operating costs.
Brar stressed that consistency and accountability are fundamental to sustainable operations. "You have to be present," she said. "If you ignore things, they fall apart." She noted that gas stations and grocery stores require reliable daily operations, including stocked shelves, clean spaces, efficient service, and stable operations—factors that customers often take for granted.
One major misconception, Brar pointed out, is that success automatically follows a business opening. "A lot of people only see the customer side," she explained. "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," she added, "even when no one is watching."
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, recognizing consistency and reliability in customer service, and understanding the pressure many small operators face behind the scenes. "You don't have to do something dramatic," she said. "Small actions matter more than people realize."
Brar's leadership style has evolved through experience. "I have become more practical and direct over time," she noted. "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 said.
The implications of Brar's message are significant for local economies. Community spending at local businesses helps circulate money back into regional economies, and repeat customers are a strong indicator of long-term stability. By encouraging intentional local choices and patience with frontline workers, Brar hopes to foster a culture that recognizes the hard work behind essential community services.
"Responsibility matters," Brar concluded. "That applies to business owners and communities alike." Her call to action urges individuals to share these conversations within their communities and support dependable local businesses through simple, consistent actions.
