2026 Outstanding Independents Awards Winner: Mel's

Owners: Dan MacIsaac and president Jeff Doucette 

For more than 30 years, Mel’s Convenience and Gas has built a strong reputation across Atlantic Canada by blending innovation, local identity and community involvement. 

From the original site in Charlottetown, P.E.I., the team now operates 16 locations, with Petro Canada and Shell pumps throughout Prince Edward Island and Nova Scotia. Its secret? The company has grown steadily while maintaining a flexible approach that allows each store to reflect the surrounding community. 

Rather than adopting a one-size-fits-all model, Mel’s empowers its location managers to tailor product selections and services to local customers. Stores feature a diverse assortment that goes well beyond traditional convenience items, including fresh baked goods, ready-to-eat meals, health-focused snacks and an extensive beverage selection. 

Many locations also highlight local history and community figures through in-store displays that celebrate regional pride. Foodservice innovation has been another driver of success, with quick-service restaurant partnerships such as Tim Hortons, A&W, Starbucks, McDonald's, Thai Express, Taco Boyz and Robin’s Donuts. Most recently, the company introduced its own made-to-order concept, Mac & Melt. 

Community support remains central to the brand. Through partnerships with groups such as the Prince Edward Island Lions Clubs, Mel’s annual Gas-O-Rama fundraiser has helped generate more than $32,000 for cystic fibrosis research and support programs. 

By combining knowledgeable staff, diverse offerings and strong community connections, Mel’s has built a model for long-term success, proving that its promise that “there is so much more at Mel’s” extends far beyond the store shelves.