2026 Star Women in Convenience winner: Ratanjot Luthra
Ratanjot Luthra
CAO
Yellow Stores
How did you get into this business?
I started my journey as a cashier at a gas station. Over time, I worked my way up to supervisor, then manager and eventually became an owner-operator. That experience gave me a deep understanding of every aspect of the business from front-line customer service to operations and leadership.
What are you most proud of during the last 12-18 months?
Over the last year, I’m most proud of continuing to grow and strengthen our operations while managing multiple locations and teams. We have focused heavily on improving efficiency, supporting staff development and building stronger relationships within the communities we serve.
What do you like most about your job?
I love building relationships with customers, mentoring employees and creating a positive environment where both staff and the business can grow together. Every day brings new challenges and opportunities, which keeps the work exciting and motivating.
What excites you most about the future of this channel?
Seeing how the convenience industry continues to evolve. Convenience stores are becoming much more than just places for quick purchases. There is a stronger focus on customer experience, innovation, technology and community involvement.
How do you define yourself as a leader?
I would describe myself as a hands-on and supportive leader. I believe in leading by example, staying approachable and creating an environment where employees feel valued and motivated to grow.
Nomination highlights
With several enthusiastic nominations, Ratanjot Luthra exemplifies the qualities of a Star Women in Convenience for her exceptional leadership, dedication and impact on both operations and people development within the convenience industry. Since joining the company in 2017 as a cashier, she has progressed through roles including supervisor, manager, general manager and store owner before becoming a key leader at Yellow’s head office. Her journey reflects resilience, ambition and a deep commitment to excellence. As chief administrative officer, she oversees head office operations supporting more than 25 store locations. She manages banking relationships, vendor partnerships, accounting operations and administrative systems while leading a team of bookkeepers and supporting store-level operations. She also played a critical role in building the operational foundation that enabled the company’s rapid growth from three stores to over 25 locations. Beyond operations, she is widely recognized as a mentor and role model. Many leaders within the organization, particularly women in management, were trained and developed under her guidance. Her leadership has helped build a strong customer-focused culture while strengthening both the business and the communities the stores serve.
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.