“We have an ongoing list,” Michelle states.  Whenever a customer asks for something we try to carry it, within reason.”

Michelle has also grown a section of the store that is like a mini ‘dollar store’.  Customers can buy toys, greeting cards, tools, gifts and much more.  Michelle knows how vital a corner store can be to a small community and since she owns the only convenience store in Canso, Michelle aims to meet her customers’ needs.

After working with the Town of Canso off and on for about 20 years, operating a corner store is very different from what she is used to.  But, there aren’t many job opportunities in the area, so when the opportunity arose to buy the store, she jumped at it.

“I really enjoy interacting with people.  The store has such a pleasant atmosphere, it’s a great place to be.”

Starting the business was not without its challenges.  Just finding enough suppliers who would deliver to Canso was difficult.  Also, Michelle found all of the rules and regulations around selling tobacco products and lottery tickets to be onerous.  Not to mention all of the other endless details that are a part of operating a convenience store.  Keeping the shelves stocked, knowing how much of each item to purchase, planning ahead to be sure to not to run out of a product.  It’s a huge learning curve.

Locals make up about eighty per-cent of the customer base at the store and it has been very busy.  The community feedback has been great.  They really appreciate that Michelle strives to meet their needs and bring in what they are looking to buy.

Michelle has a great personality for running such an operation - she is friendly, smart and witty.  She knows a lot about the area too, so she fits perfectly in her role as a local proprietor.

Michelle credits her staff and CBDC Guysborough for her success in opening and operating the business.

“I would never have been able to do it without the support of my family, staff and Joe the previous owner was available for any help I might need.  My staff had experience in the store which helped me to be able to jump right in.”

“Wanda MacDonald and Dorothy Bennett from the CBDC were great.  Not just with financial assistance, they also helped me with my business plan and training on cash flow analysis, marketing and other business training opportunities.  They are always there for me if I need help.  Without them I would never have been able to purchase the business!”

Bond & Hart’s Convenience is located at 132 Main Street in Canso.