2026 Star Women in Convenience winner: Isabelle Chrétien
Isabelle Chrétien
Owner
Le Marché de la Picoleuse | Dépanneur Maxi
How did you get into this business?
At age 15, I was a cashier at my uncle’s c-store. Over the years, I developed a passion for the business. Upon his death, he left me the store, which touched me tremendously because it showed his confidence in me.
What are you most proud of?
Launching a cold buffet catering service in response to strong demand. Leveraging our grab-and-go success, we diversified our offerings to better serve our customers.
What do you like most about your job?
How each day is different. I enjoy tackling challenges and am always seeking new ones.
Biggest career challenge?
Growing despite the arrival of large c-store chains, grocery stores that stayed open late and other businesses offering similar products. I learned you should never rest on your laurels; it’s crucial to constantly innovate and focus on the small things or services that make the difference in attracting and keeping customers.
What’s the best career advice you’ve received?
To believe in myself and everything I take on and to not let negative criticism stop me. In business, everything is trial and error and you learn from every experience.
Career highlight?
Seeing my store thrive. My biggest achievement is having loyal customers that enjoy coming in and feeling at home in our store.
What excites you most about the future?
The feeling of belonging. I’ve been with Beau-soir (Beaudry) for several years and it’s like being part of a large family.
How do you define yourself as a leader?
I listen and am focused on the well-being of my team. I’m understanding when faced with my employees’ needs and rely on their strengths while also helping them succeed.
Nomination highlights
For more than 30 years, Isabelle Chretien has demonstrated outstanding leadership, innovation and community commitment through her work in the convenience industry and her unwavering dedication to community. Including employee leadership, inventory management, administration and customer service, Chretien is responsible for overseeing all aspects of business operations. In doing so, she has consistently sought new ways to improve and grow her business through innovation and hands-on leadership. Her willingness to embrace change and implement new ideas earned her the 2024 Involvement Award at the Beau-soir (Beaudry-Cadrin) Banner Gala, selected among more than 300 convenience store owners across Quebec. In the same year, she was also recognized as Volunteer of the Year by two local associations. Beyond her professional accomplishments, she has devoted decades to community service, including more than 20 years with the Quartier des Affaires board and more than 30 years with the Contrecœur Reception Centre Foundation. Through financial contributions, sponsorships and volunteer support for countless local initiatives, she continues to make a meaningful and lasting impact on both her business and her community.
Click here for a full list of the 2026 Star Women in Convenience winners
Be there when the industry comes together in-person to celebrate at the Star Women in Convenience Awards Event.