Harpinder Brar, a business owner operating gas stations, grocery stores, and other ventures across Saskatchewan and Manitoba, is drawing attention to the mounting pressures faced by local retail operators and essential service businesses in Canada. She emphasizes that many individuals underestimate the daily operational demands on small business owners, urging communities to take simple but meaningful actions to support them.
According to Innovation, Science and Economic Development Canada, small businesses account for more than 98 percent of all employer businesses in Canada, employing over 10 million people nationwide. Despite their significant role, many operators grapple with rising costs related to fuel, transportation, inventory, staffing, and utilities. Retail industry data indicates that over half of small business owners work more than 50 hours per week, and independent retailers face increasing operating expenses year over year. Repeat customers remain a key factor in long-term stability, and community spending at local businesses helps circulate money back into regional economies.
Brar points out that consistency and accountability are foundational to sustainable operations. "You have to be present," she says. "If you ignore things, they fall apart." She highlights the misconception that success comes automatically once a business opens. "A lot of people only see the customer side. They don't see the planning, staffing, inventory, or problem-solving happening every day." To address these challenges, she relies on structured systems, repeat customer trust, and consistent standards, stating, "I believe in doing things properly, even when no one is watching."
Rather than promoting 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, and recognizing the consistency and reliability in customer service. "You don't have to do something dramatic," she says. "Small actions matter more than people realize."
Brar's leadership style has evolved through managing operations across Saskatchewan and Manitoba. "I have become more practical and direct over time," she notes. "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."
More information on the importance of supporting local businesses can be found through resources like the Government of Canada's small business statistics at https://ised-isde.canada.ca/site/sme-research-statistics/en. Brar encourages individuals to share these conversations within their own communities and support dependable local businesses through simple, consistent actions. "Responsibility matters," she says. "That applies to business owners and communities alike."
