Manufacturing Industry

Expanding Manufacturing Industry

The manufacturing industry in the Region continues to grow and diversify into efficient suppliers of specialized products. Metal fabrication, petrochemicals and transportation equipment are just some of the areas supported by this industry.

In 2003, overall sales for manufacturers increased by $65 million or 2%. The petroleum, chemical and transportation industries experienced the highest sales growth.

Metal fabrication is the largest sector of manufacturing in the area. Machinery, wood cabinetry and food processing are the next largest sectors.

The average number of employees per manufacturing operation grew 7% in 2003 - from 36 individuals to 39. Petrochemicals, rubber, and plastics experienced the highest employment growth, increasing 22% over the same period.

Manufacturing Survey
The Manufacturers Survey has once again demonstrated strong growth within the Red Deer Region's manufacturing sector.

Every other year, the Red Deer Regional Economic Development alliance distributes a Manufacturing Survey to manufacturers within the Red Deer Region. Trends and developments are shown, including employment, salary and wages, distribution of manufacturing jobs, sales and where products are being bought and sold.

The latest results show that the number of manufacturing companies within the region are continuing to grow, with new companies starting up or merging with other companies.

The increase in the number of companies also brought with it a number of employment opportunities.

For more information please contact the Economic Development department at 403.357.2367 or tharke@rdcounty.ca