2026 Outstanding Independents Awards Winner: Gas King

Owners: The Morris Family

Gas King Oil Co. Ltd., which operates seven sites and another slated to open later this year, has built a strong reputation across southern Alberta by combining local ownership with decades of consistent community support.

Operating gas stations, convenience stores and car washes throughout the region, the growing company has remained deeply connected to the communities it serves since its founding in 1985. 

That commitment is reflected in long-standing partnerships with local sports organizations, including the Lethbridge Hurricanes WHL team and the Lethbridge Bulls WCBL team through programs such as Gas King Family Fridays.

Community fundraising is also a major focus. In 2000 the company introduced its Charity Care Wash program, allowing organizations to use Gas King car washes free of charge to raise funds for various causes. In addition, the Don Morris/Gas King Memorial Fund launched in 2003 to honour the company’s co-founder and father of the current president, Brent Morris. Through coin donations, which are then matched by Gas King, more than $75,000 has been distributed to community foundations. 

Gas King also supports numerous regional events and initiatives, including a local museum, nature centre and college. 

In turn, the owners of Gas King are recognized as “Hometown Heroes” for their community involvement. Last year, they were honoured to serve as Whoop-Up Days parade marshals, demonstrating their dedication to philanthropy.

Through partnerships and local leadership, Gas King continues to demonstrate how an independent business can thrive and innovate while remaining close to their community.