2024 Star Women in Convenience winner: Annabelle Morin

National retail promotions and signage lead        

Parkland Corporation

How did you get into this business?

I was almost born into it. My parents were c-store owners in France. I have been immersed in the convenience business from a young age and was obviously participating and helping my parents as best I could as retail is very fast paced and busy, especially for c-stores. While I’ve worked in various industries, my most challenging and exciting roles have always been in retail. 

What excites you most about the future of this channel?

Our industry will certainly need to rethink its fundamental operations as customers are changing their consumption habits and becoming more conscious of health and sustainability. Our stores will continue to be destinations for convenience, but customers will expect more than their usual drinks and snacks. Especially with the growing popularity of EV, customers will expect facilities, products and services that will make them want to stop by.

What's the best advice you ever received?

To get a mentor. Having someone, or several people, to help you take your projects to the next level by sharing their knowledge can make a big difference. It’s a very invaluable asset if you can find one.

What trends or innovations are you keeping an eye on right now. Is there anything you think will shape the business in the next 5 years?

Not surprisingly, I will say AI. It’s already having such an impact in our lives, especially since the popularization of ChatGPT. I can’t imagine where it’s going to stand in five years from now. I’m very curious to see the impact AI will have on our business, our ways of working, our marketing and advertising, customer-data and even our jobs in the near future.