2026 Outstanding Independents Awards Winner: Station-Service Proxi Extra Saint-Roch-de-Mékinac

Owners: Patrick Duchesne and Chantal Lapointe 

Opened in 2023 along Route 155, this independent location has quickly become an essential stop for both residents and travellers in the Mauricie region. 

Operating under the Harnois and Proxi banners, the site represents a significant investment in the local community. For years, the municipality had been without a gas station or convenience store. The new site has helped fill that gap, restoring access to essential services while revitalizing a key stop along the route. 

The store offers far more than fuel and basic groceries. Visitors will find a broad range of products, quick meal options, fresh snacks and locally sourced goods, along with an SAQ liquor outlet. Pizza and other ready-to-eat foods have also become popular with travellers looking for a quick, satisfying stop. 

Customer service is a defining feature of the business. Staff members are known for their friendly and attentive approach, regularly assisting visitors with everything from travel questions to unexpected vehicle issues. The site also provides amenities designed with modern travel in mind, including electric vehicle charging stations, clean washrooms and a welcoming space to stretch and recharge during long drives. 

By combining key services with a strong commitment to hospitality, the location has quickly established itself as a core spot for the surrounding community and highway visitors alike.