A staple in the Cape Breton small-business community is celebrating a milestone anniversary.

Mullins Rite Shop was first opened 90 years ag in 1933 by Peter Mullins. The convenience store and gas station ahs served the served locals through ups and downs along the way and have made countless memories.

Alice Mullins, Peter’s granddaughter, says that she knows her grandfather would be proud of where the family has taken the business.

“They’ve done exactly what he started with. The community loved him, and he was a big part of everybody’s life and they [his family] carried that on for him and themselves,” said Mullins.

Mullins’ business partner, Andrea Hawrylak, said that it took a lot to get the store through the Covid-19 pandemic.

“The demand on staff, concern for staff or customers, constantly changing regulations, rules, and guidelines. It was a lot a lot of strain. A lot of hours spent here on our behalf,” said Hawrylak.

Despite the struggle, Mullins and Hawrylak both agree that some of the best memories of the store were produced through times when it had to face adversity.

“Back in September with [Hurricane] Fiona, huge memories there. There was a lot of community involvement, everyone pitched in and stepped up. We were able to keep the business going and everybody helped out,” said Mullins.

The store is hosting an anniversary celebration this Sunday from 12 p.m. until 3 p.m.

The community is invited to come out to share coffee, tea, snacks, and memories.