The Prince Rupert and Port Edward Economic Development Corporation has recently invited over 40 major retail corporations to consider expanding to Prince Rupert. A letter was compiled by PREDC and the Mayor of Prince Rupert to inform specific businesses of the present and future growth that will continue to drive demand for increased retail opportunities in our City.

“The letter being mailed to perspective retail entities will give Prince Rupert more exposure and possibly create more retail opportunities for residents of Prince Rupert, Port Edward and the surrounding First Nations communities, as well as visitors from Haida Gwaii and Ketchikan Alaska,” stated Mayor Jack Mussallem. “It could also bolster the retail shopping experience for cruise ship passengers and other visitors to our City, which we understand would be welcomed.”

The list of targeted businesses includes general merchandise, home furnishing, electronics, clothing, footwear, and cosmetics retailers. Also included in the mail out were some family restaurant and fast food outlets.

The letters mailed to retailers provided a brief summary of economic development activities that have and will be happening in Prince Rupert and area including the Ridley Terminals expansion project, increased employment statistics, increased harbour activities, and new logistics businesses starting operations.

“PREDC encourages and promotes business development in all sectors.” states Economic Development Officer, Derek Baker. “This letter will inform the businesses we targeted with accurate, good, and relevant information and will increase their chances of becoming a long term asset to Prince Rupert and the residents within the region. This effort recognizes that greater retail diversity for shopping attracts more people to Prince Rupert as a service center, and the increased activity will benefit businesses already established here.”

This initiative supports the Cities vision of growing its position as a service center to the region while also providing increased employment opportunities for local residents and generating residential growth by providing a greater quality of life for existing and prospective residents.