Harpinder Brar Launches Personal Pledge for Stronger Local Business Support
Harpinder Brar, a business owner operating a gas station, grocery store, and additional ventures across Saskatchewan and Manitoba, has announced a new personal pledge aimed at raising awareness around the importance of supporting local businesses and strengthening everyday community habits.
The pledge is rooted in her lived experience running essential retail operations and the values that guide her work: consistency, responsibility, and respect.
“People see the front counter,” Brar says. “They don’t always see everything behind it.”
Across Canada, small businesses account for 98% of all employer businesses and employ over 10 million people. Yet, many face increasing pressure from rising costs and changing consumer habits. According to recent data, over 60% of small business owners report higher operating expenses, while nearly half say customer traffic has become less predictable.
Brar believes awareness at the individual level can make a meaningful difference.
“You have to be present,” she says. “If you ignore things, they fall apart.”
Why This Issue Matters Now
-
Small businesses represent nearly half of Canada’s private sector GDP
-
Over 50% of small business owners work more than 50 hours per week
-
Rising supply and energy costs continue to impact retail operations nationwide
-
Local spending circulates more within communities compared to large chains
“You cannot expect quick results,” Brar says. “You just keep showing up.”
Harpinder Brar’s 7 Personal Commitments
As part of her pledge, Brar is committing to the following behaviours:
-
Show up daily with consistency — Stay actively involved in operations
-
Maintain clear standards — Keep businesses clean, organised, and reliable
-
Lead with respect — Treat staff and customers fairly at all times
-
Make timely decisions — Address problems early and directly
-
Stay accountable — Take responsibility for outcomes, good or bad
-
Support local networks — Work with nearby suppliers and services where possible
-
Model discipline — Lead by example through steady work habits
“I believe in doing things properly,” she says. “Even when no one is watching.”
Do-It-Yourself Toolkit: 10 Simple Actions Anyone Can Take
Brar is encouraging individuals to take action in their own communities without spending extra money:
-
Choose a local shop over a chain once per week
-
Be patient and respectful with frontline workers
-
Leave a positive review for a small business
-
Recommend a local business to a friend or family member
-
Avoid unnecessary complaints over minor issues
-
Support consistent businesses that show reliability
-
Learn the name of a local business owner or staff member
-
Share a local business on social media
-
Visit during off-peak hours to help steady traffic
-
Acknowledge good service when you receive it
“You don’t have to do something big,” Brar says. “Just understand that every small choice adds up.”
30-Day Local Support Tracker
Use this simple tracker to stay consistent:
-
Week 1: Support 2 local businesses + leave 1 review
-
Week 2: Recommend 2 businesses + share 1 online
-
Week 3: Visit during off-peak + learn a staff member’s name
-
Week 4: Repeat 3 actions and reflect on changes
Goal: Build awareness and consistent habits over 30 days
Call to Action
Harpinder Brar invites individuals to take the pledge by committing to small, consistent actions that support local businesses.
Share this pledge. Use the toolkit. Track your progress for 30 days.
“It’s about responsibility,” she says. “If you take that seriously, the rest follows.”
To read the full interview, visit the website here.
About Harpinder Brar
Harpinder Brar is a business owner based in Saskatchewan and Manitoba. She operates a gas station, grocery store, and additional ventures across both provinces. Originally from Moga, Punjab, she built her career through steady discipline and hands-on leadership. She is a mother of three and is known for her practical approach to business, focusing on consistency, accountability, and community presence.
Contact:
Media Contact
Company Name: Harpinder Brar
Contact Person: Harpinder Brar
Email: Send Email
Country: Canada
Website: harpinderbrar.com
