At this year’s Hall of Fame Awards two retailers were celebrated for their commitment to the industry. The 2017 recipients of the Retailers of the Year come from both the independent side and the chain sector.
PHOTO: (L-R) Dave Bryans, CEO OCSA; Chris Wilcox, Vice-president and General Manager Quickie Convenience Stores; Gino Vecia, Manager New Business Development, Lumsden Brothers
Quickie Convenience Stores operates 53 stores in Eastern Ontario and Western Quebec. The Quickie motto is “Your good neighbour” and it’s more than just a saying, it’s the heart of their business.
Over the years Quickie has taken its community commitment seriously by sponsoring many local charity events and sports teams. From 1990 to 1997, the focus of the company’s fundraising effort each spring was its “Le Tour des Quickie” bicycle ride in support of the Children’s Hospital of Eastern Ontario. During the seven years Quickie ran the fundraiser they raised over $2.1 million dollars. Since 1997, Quickie’s charitable work in the community continues through the Quickie Community Foundation and currently provides financial support to over 50 local charitable organizations and youth sport teams.
Dave Bryans, CEO of the Ontario Convenience Stores Association (OCSA) presented the award to Chris Wilcox, Vice President and General Manager of Quickie Convenience Stores. Chris has been on the OCSA Board of Directors for more than 10 years and is very committed to ensuring the industry’s voice can be heard on the many issues affecting the trade. Under Chris’ leadership, Quickie has become an important supporter in the c-retail community and can be congratulated for carrying the torch for the channel.
PHOTO: (L-R) Gino Vecia, Manager New Business Development Lumsden Brothers; Jim Smith, Operator Mic’s Kwik Way; Dave Bryans, CEO OCSA
Mic’s Kwik Way is a community-minded c-store in Blind River, Ontario that serves a rural population of approximately 3,500 people.
Jim Smith took over the family-owned business in 1996 and since has focused on increasing product volume and customer count, improving customer service and product variety, and maintaining high inventory levels. Jim has also demonstrated a commitment to giving back to his community. Mic’s Kwik Way proudly supports many local initiatives such as school breakfast clubs and food banks, as well as numerous local fundraising campaigns.
Jim recently celebrated his 20th anniversary as operator of Mic’s Kwik Way and remains committed to serving his community and loyal customers for many years to come.