After graduating college with an accounting and finance degree, Sameh Kanan knew he wanted to explore the world of business ownership. He had worked in a gas station during college and enjoyed the business, so he approached his brother to see if he’d be interested in co-buying an old Citgo station that was up for sale.
Since the opening of that first location in Taunton back in 2006, Canaan Fuels has grown into a leading local name of gas stations and convenience stores, known as C’s Market. Today, Sameh and his brother Mike operate 8 locations across Southern Massachusetts and have plans to open 2 additional locations before the end of this year.
Canaan Fuels sets itself apart with its commitment to a modern, clean, and inviting experience. Each location offers gas along with the comprehensive convenience store selection that you get at major chains, but with a small business feel. Canaan also offers fresh coffee and pastries, and new food options like pizza. However, the fan favorite is Jolly Rancher slushies. “It’s a unique offering that I don’t think a lot of convenience stores carry. People love it - it’s kind of a Canaan Fuels trademark,” says Sameh.
With 35 full and part-time employees across their stores and corporate office, Canaan Fuels strikes a unique balance. "Our stores are a small chain, but at the same time, we still operate as a family business," Sameh says. They prioritize a welcoming, friendly environment, steering clear of the impersonal feel often found in large corporate stores. Due to having lower overhead costs than the big chains, Canaan is also able to offer more competitive pricing.
Sameh leads his business by example. He’s very hands-on and visits all of his stores weekly. He doesn’t mind pitching in with whatever task is needed to get the job done. "I'm not the kind of boss who wears a suit and tie and sits behind a desk," he says. His down-to-earth approach fosters a positive culture, ensuring that every customer feels welcome.
Sameh believes Canaan’s strong reputation comes from being well-established in the towns they serve, including Taunton, Plymouth, Attleboro, Mansfield, Wellesley, Foxborough, and Milford. The company is committed to supporting the local community, evidenced by their recent sponsorship of a youth football team in Milford.
Reflecting on his journey as a business owner, Sameh notes how far technology has come since he and his brother opened their first store in 2006. "Technology has made things so much easier. So much can be done remotely, and almost everything is computerized," he says. But while technology has brought a lot of efficiency, Sameh also points out that the post-COVID landscape has introduced new challenges such as staffing and supply chain issues.
Looking ahead, Canaan Fuels has an ambitious five-year plan to double their size to 20 locations across the Southern Massachusetts area. At BankFive, we’re thankful to call Canaan Fuels a long-time business partner, and we’re proud to support their steady expansion in our local area. "Lynn’s been absolutely phenomenal to work with,” Sameh says of BankFive Commercial Lender Lynn Motta. “She's like a friend now, not just my loan officer. Whatever I need, I call or email her, and it gets done right away. I really love that."
For those looking to start their own business, Sameh offers straightforward advice: "Don’t be scared to try. There's a lot of people who overthink it. Whatever you want to do, just try it.” He emphasizes that he had to take risks and learn things as he went, as someone who started a business right out of college.
Canaan Fuels does a great job of blending modern business with a local touch. Their commitment to growth while maintaining exceptional customer service makes them a shining example in our local business landscape. To find a Canaan Fuels and C’s Market location near you, visit canaanfuels.com/locations.
Since the opening of that first location in Taunton back in 2006, Canaan Fuels has grown into a leading local name of gas stations and convenience stores, known as C’s Market. Today, Sameh and his brother Mike operate 8 locations across Southern Massachusetts and have plans to open 2 additional locations before the end of this year.
Canaan Fuels sets itself apart with its commitment to a modern, clean, and inviting experience. Each location offers gas along with the comprehensive convenience store selection that you get at major chains, but with a small business feel. Canaan also offers fresh coffee and pastries, and new food options like pizza. However, the fan favorite is Jolly Rancher slushies. “It’s a unique offering that I don’t think a lot of convenience stores carry. People love it - it’s kind of a Canaan Fuels trademark,” says Sameh.
With 35 full and part-time employees across their stores and corporate office, Canaan Fuels strikes a unique balance. "Our stores are a small chain, but at the same time, we still operate as a family business," Sameh says. They prioritize a welcoming, friendly environment, steering clear of the impersonal feel often found in large corporate stores. Due to having lower overhead costs than the big chains, Canaan is also able to offer more competitive pricing.
Sameh leads his business by example. He’s very hands-on and visits all of his stores weekly. He doesn’t mind pitching in with whatever task is needed to get the job done. "I'm not the kind of boss who wears a suit and tie and sits behind a desk," he says. His down-to-earth approach fosters a positive culture, ensuring that every customer feels welcome.
Sameh believes Canaan’s strong reputation comes from being well-established in the towns they serve, including Taunton, Plymouth, Attleboro, Mansfield, Wellesley, Foxborough, and Milford. The company is committed to supporting the local community, evidenced by their recent sponsorship of a youth football team in Milford.
Reflecting on his journey as a business owner, Sameh notes how far technology has come since he and his brother opened their first store in 2006. "Technology has made things so much easier. So much can be done remotely, and almost everything is computerized," he says. But while technology has brought a lot of efficiency, Sameh also points out that the post-COVID landscape has introduced new challenges such as staffing and supply chain issues.
Looking ahead, Canaan Fuels has an ambitious five-year plan to double their size to 20 locations across the Southern Massachusetts area. At BankFive, we’re thankful to call Canaan Fuels a long-time business partner, and we’re proud to support their steady expansion in our local area. "Lynn’s been absolutely phenomenal to work with,” Sameh says of BankFive Commercial Lender Lynn Motta. “She's like a friend now, not just my loan officer. Whatever I need, I call or email her, and it gets done right away. I really love that."
For those looking to start their own business, Sameh offers straightforward advice: "Don’t be scared to try. There's a lot of people who overthink it. Whatever you want to do, just try it.” He emphasizes that he had to take risks and learn things as he went, as someone who started a business right out of college.
Canaan Fuels does a great job of blending modern business with a local touch. Their commitment to growth while maintaining exceptional customer service makes them a shining example in our local business landscape. To find a Canaan Fuels and C’s Market location near you, visit canaanfuels.com/locations.