Of the approximately 22,000 convenience stores across Canada, the majority (58%) are operated by an independent operator (this includes single-store owners, dealers and franchisees). These valuable entrepreneurs play a key role in the success of the convenience channel, as well as communities large and small from coast to coast to coast.
With that in mind, Convenience Store News Canada is launching an Outstanding Independents Awards Canada program to shine a light on single-store owners and small operators (1-20 stores) making a big impact, despite their smaller size and more limited resources.
This annual competition will recognize excellence in tenacity, innovation, differentiation, customer loyalty, profit-generating initiatives and more.
Nominations are now open!
Convenience store retailers (including dealers and franchisees) operating one to 20 stores in Canada are eligible to win. The Awards will celebrate small operators who are embracing new technologies, business practices, innovation, customer loyalty, profit-generating initiatives, and more, including business growth and responsible retailing.
Nomination deadline: February 6, 2026
Retailers honoured as an Outstanding Independent will be spotlighted in the May/June 2026 issue of Convenience Store News Canada magazine, the All Convenience Newsletter and featured online at CCentral.ca.
In order to encourage participation in the Outstanding Independents Awards Canada 2026 nomination and Summit attendance, CSNC will be recognizing the top OIA winner as a grand prize winner where they will be presented with an education sponsorship for a family member or donation to a charity of their choice.
All winners will receive rights to the Outstanding Independents Awards Canada Logo and a window decal for their stores.
In addition, winners will receive a two-day pass to The 2026 Convenience U CARWACS Show, which includes the Industry Dinner, Two-morning Conference and Trade Show.
Outstanding Independents Awards Canada Small Operator Summit
CSNC will host a virtual awards presentation in May 2026 that will be the backdrop of a Small Operator Summit.
The Summit will be open to all operators across Canada and include keynotes, panel discussions and the awards ceremony.
Thank you to Outstanding Independents Awards Canada's Founding Partners
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