Creighton’s Petro-Canada station is paying dividends for Peter Ballantyne Cree Nation (PBCN).
The gas station and convenience store is among the businesses owned by PBCN’s economic development division, Peter Ballantyne Group of Companies (PBGC), and a PBGC subsidiary.
“It’s been a good investment for us and we’re happy with it,” said Derek McKay, manager with PBGC, whose subsidiary purchased the business in 2010. “We’ve accomplished what we’ve set out to do. Our previous experience in the industry made the decision to purchase this business easier.”
The store underwent extensive renovations to meet the standards set by the two other stations owned and operated by PBGC as well as Petro Canada.
“We’ve made a significant investment in the renovations and have experienced a growth in the customer base as a result,” said McKay.
A number of the employees who had been working at the business before PBGC took over have continued their employment, with some moving into management roles.
A staff of about 15 people in management, full-time, part-time and casual positions work at the business.
As with the other businesses the company operates, employment opportunities are important.
“We focus on getting anyone employment that we can,” McKay said.
PBGC owns several other businesses, including two additional retail fuel stations in Prince Albert, Prince Albert Casino Ventures, Mee-Toos Forest Product Ltd, PBCN Ambulance Service and the PBCN Office Complex.
The company is also an active partner in Western First Nations Hospitality LP, Prince Albert Development Corporation, First Nations Insurance LP, Northern Resource Trucking LP, La Ronge Wild Rice Corporation, and Points North Freight Forwarding.
Diversified investments are important to the company.
“We are always looking at new opportunities,” said McKay.
“When an opportunity comes around we do an evaluation and make sure it fits within certain criteria. The business has to fit within our plan and decisions are not taken lightly.”
