This spring, we partnered with community organizations and economic development agencies to conduct a business walk throughout the Mount Paul Industrial Area.
Together, 12 teams visited 87 businesses, providing us with an opportunity to connect directly with business owners and operators and gain valuable insight into current business conditions, opportunities, and challenges.
These conversations are an important part of our work. They help us better understand the realities businesses are facing, identify emerging trends, and strengthen relationships with the businesses that help drive our local economy. By listening firsthand, we can better advocate for business needs and support informed economic development planning.
We would like to sincerely thank all the businesses that took the time to meet with us and share their perspectives. We also extend our appreciation to the many colleagues and partners who joined us throughout the day, including representatives from Tk̓emlúps te Secwépemc, All Nations Trust Company, BDC, the Kamloops & District Chamber of Commerce, the City of Kamloops, the Ministry of Transportation and Transit, Tourism Kamloops, Venture Kamloops, United Way British Columbia, both Sc.wén̓wen Economic and Land Development Corporations, and our Sc.wén̓wen Board Chair.
The information gathered through the business walk will help guide future initiatives, identify opportunities for collaboration, and ensure the voices of local businesses are reflected in ongoing discussions about economic growth and development in our community.
Key Findings
Businesses continue to demonstrate resilience despite economic uncertainty.
- 43 businesses described their business as Good & Increasing
- 27 described their business as Fair & Steady
- 13 described their business as Slow / Poor
What we heard:
- “This location is a great place to have a business.”
- “We love the access, the parking, everybody in the band is fabulous.”
- “It is nice working with TteS.”
Greatest Challenges Facing Businesses
Transportation & Access
The most frequently identified concern was transportation and access related to the Red Bridge closure.
Top concerns:
- Red Bridge (51 businesses)
- Transportation impacts (30 businesses)
What we heard:
- “The loss of the Red Bridge has been a struggle.”
- “Building back the right and functional Red Bridge will help businesses.”
- “Downtown jobs lack access to where the business is.”
Rising Costs & Economic Uncertainty
Businesses continue to face pressure from increasing costs and an uncertain economic environment.
Top concerns:
- Rising Operating Costs (35 businesses)
- Current Economic Climate (29 businesses)
- Tariffs / Trade Impacts (24 businesses)
- Global Economic Uncertainty (22 businesses)
- Supply Chain Challenges (21 businesses)
What we heard:
- “Operating costs are getting higher and the bottom line is decreasing.”
- “Better economic certainty.”
- “Stabilization in the economy would help.”
Workforce & Labour Challenges
Finding and retaining qualified employees remains a concern across several sectors.
Top concern:
- Staffing & Labour Shortages (32 businesses)
What we heard:
- Difficulty finding skilled workers
- Challenges with workforce retention
- Ongoing need for industry-specific labour
What Businesses Said Would Help
Infrastructure Improvements
Suggestions included:
- Rebuilding the Red Bridge
- Road and traffic improvements
- Water system upgrades
- Improved drainage
- Better visibility and wayfinding
Economic Stability & Business Supports
Businesses expressed interest in:
- Reduced operating costs
- Lower taxes and fees
- Stable government policies
- Support navigating regulatory requirements
Community Safety & Business Environment
Several businesses raised concerns about:
- Crime and break-ins
- Road maintenance and potholes
- Beautification and street appeal
- Customer access and visibility
Looking Ahead
Business Succession
Many businesses are beginning to think about long-term transition planning.
- 26 businesses are considering retirement or selling within the next five years
- 39 businesses have a succession plan in place
This highlights the importance of supporting business continuity, workforce development, and future investment in the industrial area.
What We Heard About TteS & SEDC
Businesses appreciated opportunities to connect directly with SEDC and share their experiences.
Themes included:
Desire to stay informed about infrastructure and development projects
Appreciation for responsiveness and relationship-building
Positive experiences working with TteS staff
Interest in continued communication and engagement
If you’re interested in joining us for next year’s Business Walk in the Mount Paul Industrial Park please reach out to Stephanie Tate, Economic Development Strategist, SEDC at stephanie.tate@scwenwen.ca