3 minute read
0624-GHN - June - 2024
Zest Commercial Food Hub © Courtesy of Salmon Arm Economic Development Society
Salmon Arm: We Saved You a Seat at the Table
At the crossroads of the Trans Canada Highway and Highway 97B in the southern interior of British Columbia, you will find the city of Salmon Arm along the shores of the breathtaking Shuswap Lake.
A highly diverse economy brings both big and small businesses to the area, and this small city is making big waves in the world of food and beverage processing. With a strategic location, a burgeoning community of local farmers, and innovative initiatives like the Zest Commercial Food Hub, Salmon Arm is at the forefront of a culinary revolution—and they’ve saved space for you to join them.
Cultivating a Culinary Legacy
Did you know that the Thompson Okanagan and Shuswap regions account for a whopping 16 per cent of British Columbia’s total food and beverage manufacturing? Over the past decade, Salmon Arm has seen consistent growth in this sector, establishing itself as a hub for culinary innovation.
In Salmon Arm, supporting local isn’t just a trend; it’s what the community is built on. Salmon Arm is home to a rich agricultural landscape, with over 100 farms within the city limits and an additional 600 sprinkled throughout the Shuswap region. The diversity of products—from fresh produce to artisanal goods—is the foundation for their thriving food and beverage processing industry. Shuswap consumers are committed to purchasing locally, creating a loyal customer base for businesses, both big and small.
In addition, the town’s commitment to supporting local products extends beyond borders, with mentorship programs designed to help businesses get their products to market. Salmon Arm’s location on the Trans Canada Highway ensures getting products to national and international markets is very accessible.
The Zest Commercial Food Hub—a shared processing space where local food businesses can bring their ideas to life—is at the heart of Salmon Arm’s agriculture and culinary scene. By providing access to commercial food processing equipment in a certified food processing space with invaluable community expertise, Zest eliminates the barriers to entry for budding entrepreneurs. With affordable facilities, mentorship programs, and a collaborative community, Zest is an environment where food and beverage start-ups can flourish, which is a priority for Salmon Arm’s community growth.
Whether you’re a seasoned veteran or a newcomer to the scene, the Food Hub offers a supportive environment to nurture your passion and expand your horizons. Zest welcomes all who share in the vision of expanding the thriving culinary landscape.
A Recipe for Success
Looking to relocate or expand your business? Look no further than Salmon Arm. A fast-growing community, Salmon Arm is a “Small City with Big Ideas.” With its prime location, a welcoming and vibrant atmosphere, and unmatched quality of life, this small city offers big opportunities for entrepreneurs. Whether you’re drawn to the stunning natural surroundings or the dynamic business ecosystem, Salmon Arm has something for everyone. And with support from the Salmon Arm Economic Development Society (SAEDS), the journey has never been smoother.
Online, SAEDS is a valuable information resource for entrepreneurs looking to move to Salmon Arm. Check out the Relocation Guide to learn about the area’s lifestyle, including information on commerce, housing, education, healthcare, shopping, arts and culture, recreation, and more. You can also view the area’s real estate and investment opportunities, including businesses for sale, industrial and commercial space for sale/lease, and land development opportunities.
Ready to embark on your culinary journey? Visit zestfoodhub.ca and saeds.ca to learn more, or email edo@saeds.ca. Your seat at the table awaits!
