Many Local Stores in Quebec Forced to Shut Down (CTV News)
For generations, small neighbourhood stores in Quebec—known as depanneurs—have been more than just places to grab snacks, lottery tickets, or a quick bottle of soda. These friendly, go-to shops, often run by local families, were cornerstones of their communities. But many are now shutting their doors for good.
One such place is owned by Brijesh Patel. For nearly five years, he's been running his Provi-Soir store in Dorval, a suburb of Montreal. His customers don’t just come for groceries—they come for him. Locals like Saverio Martinello say Patel makes them feel like part of his family.
However, friendly service isn’t enough to pay the bills. Patel admits sales have dropped drastically—by about 25% in just the past six months. He blames the dip on rising costs. As rents and daily expenses soar, people simply aren’t buying like they used to.
Patel, originally from India and trained as a computer engineer, used his savings to buy the store. He’s passionate about the work, but admits it’s becoming harder to keep things afloat.
According to the site DepQuebec, over 550 convenience stores in the province have closed in the last two years. Many of those were independently owned shops, not linked to bigger franchises.
Michel Poulin, a spokesperson for Regroupement des Tabagies du Quebec, says a mix of dropping tobacco and lottery sales, along with tightening government rules, has made things worse. Tabagies—stores that focus on tobacco but also sell candy and soda—are particularly affected.
Poulin urges communities not to let these shops disappear. “You don’t need a membership. If you live nearby, you already belong,” he says. “You’re part of that local circle. These stores help bring people together.”
Inflation has also forced people to change habits. Bigger retailers like Walmart now offer lower prices, and that’s hard to compete with. Patel says he hasn’t sold a single can of food in months—his customers now get them elsewhere for less.
Compounding the issue, younger generations don’t have the same attachment to local shops as their parents and grandparents. They prioritize cost and convenience over community ties.
Still, not everyone has given up. Elderly residents, in particular, continue to rely on their neighbourhood depanneur. For them, it’s not just about the items on the shelves—it’s about the familiar faces behind the counter.
Sylvie Paquet, a loyal customer who lives nearby, values the warmth and human connection. “I just got back from vacation,” she says. Seeing Brijesh again made me smile. That kind of contact matters.”
Despite the uphill battle, Patel has no intention of leaving. He’s committed to staying open for those who still need him.
