Sunoco Eyes Parkland—and That Could Mean Triple O’s, Too
More Pieces of Canada on the Chopping Block?
Author: Matthew Shane
Published: May 15, 2025
You may have heard that U.S.-based Sunoco (run by Republican mega-donor and Trump-supporter Kelcy Warren) has announced its intention to acquire Parkland Corporation, one of Canada’s largest fuel and convenience operators. If the name Parkland doesn’t immediately ring a bell, the names Ultramar, Pioneer, Chevron, and On the Run probably will. Parkland runs more than 4,000 gas stations across North America, and it’s one of the last remaining independent energy firms with deep Canadian roots.
⛽ Sovereignty Starts at the Pump
This isn’t just about gas. It’s an economic and security issue.
Oil and gas is a strategically vital sector for Canada, and one of our strongest negotiation levers in an increasingly volatile geopolitical climate. The US very much wants access to our oil reserves, and having Parkland controlled by a U.S. firm (with strong ties to Trump) means one more piece of that leverage shifts abroad. And it’s not a small piece: Parkland handles fuel distribution, renewable energy initiatives — it owns infrastructure that touches everything from BC’s coast to Quebec’s rural roads. For that to come under American rule would be a major blow to Canada’s economic and resource sovereignty.
🍔 Burgers, Branding, and the Quiet Takeover
But there’s another part to this story that may fly under the radar.
Parkland doesn’t just sell fuel. It also runs many of the Triple O’s locations found attached to gas stations across Western Canada. Yes – that Triple O’s – the one that’s been a staple in Western Canada for decades (and is beginning to pop up elsewhere across the country). Little known fact: Parkland operates more Triple O’s locations than any other franchisee. So if the deal goes through, these locations may end up under U.S. rule as well.
Our intel suggests that the franchise agreements won’t automatically transfer to Sunoco upon the sale of Parkland – but even if Triple O’s retains corporate control, the gas station they’re attached to would now be American-owned.
👀 Ottawa Is Watching—And So Should You
This deal isn’t yet final. In fact, the federal government has confirmed that it will be taking a close look at the proposed acquisition. Given the scale of the transaction and the critical role Parkland plays in Canadian infrastructure, this is one of those moments where regulatory scrutiny matters.
🫵 What can you do about this?
- ✍️ Write your MP: Sometimes we feel that us ‘little people’ don’t have the power to invoke significant change. But if the Buy Canadian movement is proving anything, it’s proving that collectively we do! So, consider a poignant letter to your municipal, provincial or federal governments to indicate your opinion on the Parkland sale. Need help drafting a letter? Here are two example letters you could use: Letter Template 1, Letter Template 2.
- 🍁 Keep buying Canadian! Even if the Parkland sale does go through, the very best thing you can do is continue buying Canadian. It’s the best way to insulate our economy, promote local job growth, and keep our economy resilient from foreign pressures. We’re making a difference! Keep it up!
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