Pictured above is the Shenandoah One Stop team, Kunal Patel, Kirit Patel (Pops), Brenda Sillers, and PInky Patel.
Shenandoah One Stop owners, Kunal and Pinky Patel are partners in business and partners in life. This hardworking couple is the perfect example of the American entrepreneurial spirit. Throughout the years they have grown their family business to include seven convenient store locations throughout Northeastern Pennsylvania. In addition to Shenandoah, they own stores in Bangor, Hamburg, Jonestown, Marietta, Ringtown, Scranton, and Stroudsburg.
Both Kunal and Pinky left the corporate world to have more flexibility. The Patels' first priority is to their family. They decided to open their own business for two important reasons. "One was to be close to our family and second, was to give our children the family values that we have received," Pinky said. She continued to explain that her parents immigrated to the United States to give their family a better education and more opportunities. "It is very difficult in today’s world to balance work and family life. I wanted to manage my own time so I can be home for my kids when they come home from school," she added. The couple has three children, Kashish, Raghuveer, and Vihaan.
Most folks in the community aren't aware of what doing business locally means to them. When the couple purchases a new business, they don't change the name for a very important reason. They understand there is a community connection, a history that goes along with the business. "We want to maintain the community feel," explained Pinky. "I would like people to give us an opportunity to get to know us and who we are. I feel that some people have a bad impression about the One Stop from the past and don’t even realize that we are different owners." Since the Patels took ownership, they improved everything from the products and services to the outside facade pictured below.
Shenandoah One Stop has an impressive product mix and everyone is welcome to stop by and see for themselves. "We have it all," said Pinky. "You can purchase your basic household goods, groceries, and even have lunch." She added their menu includes a variety of hot foods, breakfast sandwiches, and our popular hoagies. "We also sell The Pennsylvania Lottery and provide Money Gram and Check Cashing services."
The Patels care and are committed to helping improve the Shenandoah area. They both agree the future is bright if the community joins together. "We all need to do our part in making Shenandoah a better and safe place to raise our families," she said. A joint effort from everyone in the community will make a big difference in making our town better." Since we made Shenandoah our home 15 years ago it is great to see how everything has been improving in our store and throughout town.
Pinky is an active DSI volunteer and shares her time and talent through donations, informative presentations, and sponsorships. If you would like to meet Pinky, register for her upcoming, "Let's Talk Empowerment" lunch presentation scheduled on April 17 at DSI's office. Register today.
