Manufacturing

Manufacturing continues to be the fastest growing sector of the regional and provincial economy. A 2002 study by the Okanagan Shuswap Manufacturers Association estimates there are approximately 450 businesses actively engaged in the manufacturing sector in Kelowna and the Central Okanagan (RDCO). Approximately 80% of these firms have less than 20 employees. Of the remainder, approximately 20 firms have between 50 and 99 employees and three have more than 200 employees.

Manufacturing is the greatest contributor to job creation in the region offering well paying, full time jobs that are not usually seasonal in nature. Major employers in this sector include Riverside Forest Products, with 577 employees and Sun-Rype Products with 444 employees. The industry is also well represented by producers of wine, boats, aerospace products, communications equipment, modular homes, fibreglass products, value-added wood producers and steel fabrication.

The region is actively promoting the benefits of the locating in Kelowna and the Central Okanagan to new companies looking for a start-up or branch location, or to relocate. Kelowna was recently identified in a major study by KPMG as the most cost competitive business location in the Pacific Region based on such factors as labour, taxes and utility costs. Manufacturers are also attracted by affordability of land in the Central Okanagan, excellent transportation connections, ready access to high technology services and utilities, a highly skilled workforce and a preferred climate and lifestyle. Additional information on the cost competitive advantage our region offers check out Kelowna1.

For a more complete picture of the manufacturing industry in our region please download the Manufacturing section from our Economic Profile (provide pdf). You may also search for a manufacturer from the Made In BC website.

Manufacturing Sector