Serpent River First Nation Gas Bar celebrates grand re-opening
June 16, 2025
By Leslie Knibbs
SERPENT RIVER FIRST NATION – Serpent River First Nation (SRFN) Canco Gas Bar held its grand re-opening on May 24, following extensive renovations and new branding after forming a partnership with Canadian gas supplier Canco.
Canco is the retail division of PR Petroleum Ltd, a Kelowna, BC-based company launched in 2014, now operating 160 gas stations, convenience stores, and quick service restaurants from coast-to-coast.
According to the Canco company website, “PR works closely, under contract with First Nations in Alberta, British Columbia, and Ontario. Through effective management and customer service, PR has achieved great success in improving store operations in the First Nation communities. PR is backed by an incredible team of more than 400 people across the country; they help the company to provide exceptional customer service and help nurture our communities.”
The newly renovated SRFN Gas Bar is committed to providing essential items, fuel, and, now, a much wider selection of goods. The partnership with Canco has resulted in improvements, including new signage inside and outside to enhance the shopping experience. Located in the heart of SRFN, the convenient highway location serves both the community and visitors alike, playing an important role in the local economy, as well as supporting the needs of SRFN.
Back in 2023, the Serpent River First Nation Limited Partnership (SRFN LP) was established to pursue economic projects and business opportunities which are in the best interest of the community and to provide oversight and direction for revenue-making enterprises. Operating with a Board of Directors, including the Chairperson, an Elder representative, a youth representative, and a male and female representative, the SRFN LP oversees property management, retail operations at the Trading Post property, as well as the Agawa Crafts in Batchewana Bay.
At the grand re-opening, many local vendors had displays set up, including Stacy Sauve from Sauve Soap Co. with her hand-made soaps and natural hydrosols. Live music at the event featured Mike Baranyai, a member of SRFN. Baranyai, a virtuoso on the guitar, delighted those attending with his performance.
These renovations and new branding have been in the works for over a year. In May 2024, a request for proposals was sent out to McDougall, Parkland/Rayviant, Gen 7, Econo, New North Fuels, Ultramar, Co-op, Centrex, and Canco. Following vetting of the contract bidding, Canco was identified as the successful bid. At the SRFN Council Meeting on February 11, the Chief and Council authorized the SRFN LP to proceed with the signing of a contract with Canco for a 10-year term.
A current long-term employee at the Gas Bar was asked what he thought of the newly branded and renovated business.
“It’s awesome, wait till you see the inside and the new products.”
On opening day, dozens of people were there to gas up and shop at the newly renovated SRFN Canco store.