Heritage Co-op unveils new Downtown gas station

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This article was published 18/08/2023 (960 days ago), so information in it may no longer be current.

Heritage Co-op unveiled its new Downtown gas station at 102 Rosser Avenue on Thursday with a ribbon cutting and a donation to a worthwhile local organization.

“I’m truly excited today,” Heritage Co-op business to business operations manager Barry Cooper told the Sun. “This presents a unique opportunity for us to integrate into downtown Brandon, showcasing our core strengths. We are truly enthused as we serve our customers and interact with our neighbours.”

As a full-service station, Cooper explained that it will help the local economy by substantially increasing employment opportunities, while improving the look of the site.

“Concurrently, we’ve elevated the aesthetics of the area. Our dedication to the downtown community, both visually and economically, is a source of immense pride,” he added.

Heritage Co-op general manager Dennis Laing echoed Cooper’s comments about the project and underscored the organization’s community-building role.

“Our establishment has generated employment for numerous individuals who were previously without jobs,” said Laing. “We’ve also contributed to the area’s overall cleanliness and have made financial contributions to downtown Brandon. We’re honoured to be part of the downtown neighbourhood.”

The grand opening ceremony also shed light on Heritage Co-op’s philanthropic endeavours, with the co-op donating $500 to Westman Immigrant Services.

“Heritage Co-op’s contribution holds special significance for us, reflecting their consideration towards supporting the work that generates lasting impacts within our community,” Westman Immigrant Services’ CEO Enver Naidoo told the Sun.

Naidoo also said that the co-op’s investment in downtown Brandon is encouraging for immigrants considering opening businesses of their own and showcases downtown’s potential as an investment hub.

Brandon Chamber of Commerce general manager Connor Ketchen lauded the co-op for its community-mindedness.

“They invest back in and collaborate with other organizations,” he said. “So having them on the corner of downtown to help lead and invest back in is going to be great for the success of our business community. So anytime Co-op is involved with a partnership and opening an organization, the chamber supports them because they are leaders in their fields.”

Mayor Jeff Fawcett also paid tribute to Heritage Co-op’s positive influence within the community.

“The reinvestment in downtown is truly commendable,” he said. “Their positive impact on the neighbourhood resonates, encouraging others to follow suit.”

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