Sinclair

Story

In 1982, Helena residents Ron and Barb Leland entered into a long-term lease of the little Husky gas station at 1831 11th Avenue in Helena. Shortly thereafter, Husky brand gas pulled out of the State of Montana. Ron chose Sinclair to replace Husky, and named the store: Friendly’s Sinclair. A modest remodel followed, turning a service bay into a grocery, cigarette, beer and pop area – one of Helena’s first “convenience” stores.
Patronized by a faithful customer base, Friendly’s store was a successful, yet small, profitable operation for many years. In the late 1990s, Ron and Barb had the opportunity to purchase the Friendly’s property. They did, and immediately started making plans to build a new bigger and better store. They designed the new store, choosing attractive features from various stores across the country with large windows and a peaked roof. They also added the signature ceramic Sinclair mascot – Dino the Dinosaur.

In February of 2002, the new 5200-sq. ft. Friendly’s Sinclair and Deli was completed. The new store offered one-stop-shopping, including fast food, five gas pumps, and a large selection of grocery and typical convenience store items.

On December 20, 2002, just 10 months after the opening of his dream store, Ron Leland passed away from a heart attack. Barb became the sole owner and operator – and continues in that capacity today--, adding a car wash and purchasing lots adjacent to the Friendly’s property. She has recently brought in son Scott as the store’s Manager, and hopes to turn the business over to her three sons in the near future.

A Mom and Pop business, run by the Leland family, Friendly’s is one of a decreasing number of locally owned convenience stores in Helena. “Our money stays in Helena, our employees are from Helena, and our loan is from a Helena bank,” says Barb. “We’re proud of our store, and appreciate our local customers!”