Business and Commerce

Incorporated in 1999, the Town of Lakeshore boasts an abundance of economic development opportunities. One of the fastest growing communities in Canada, Lakeshore's population has grown from 28,000 to nearly 35,000 since amalgamation.

Source: 2006 Statistics Canada

Over the same period, retail development has struggled to keep pace with the population growth. In fact, statistics suggest that retail activity within Lakeshore is 70% below the national average.

Lakeshore is part of the Windsor-Essex County peninsula, which is central to North America's manufacturing and high technology industries.

Our area is strategic. It is home to 357,000 people on the Canadian side of the Detroit River and there are 4.5 million people in the adjacent areas of Detroit and South-eastern Michigan...all just within 65 km (40 miles) of us.

A skilled manufacturing workforce, local access to excellent post-secondary education and one of the lowest industrial property tax regimes in Ontario, make Lakeshore one of the best values in North America.

What's more, it is easy and economically attractive to establish here. The prices of our industrial development sites are among the lowest in Canada. Our temperate peninsula allows us to enjoy the longest and most favourable growing climate in Canada. It averages more than 200 growing days each year and we have also become home to the finest of viniculture, with Essex County wineries attracting international favour and awards. It is easy to understand why our agricultural sector continues to thrive. Opportunities abound in the area of food processing.

In Lakeshore itself and within a half hour's drive, we have rapidly developing retail areas, international manufacturers, international entertainment, world class sporting events and some of the finest natural and created attractions anywhere on the continent.

The 'just-in-time' philosophy fits us perfectly. Lakeshore and Windsor-Essex are within a day's drive of a full 905 of all the vehicle assembly plants in North America. But it is not just about the automobile. Lakeshore also boasts a diversified industrial base. We have printing, industry, custom aluminium extrusion, gelatine capsule technology, freight logistics, tool and die, mold makers and an aerospace company.

Lakeshore, along with the Windsor-Essex County area with its temperate climate, has historically recorded the lowest energy charges in Ontario.

Renewable wind energy is coming to Lakeshore. Council has approved four (4) wind farm projects throughout the municipality. It is anticipated these wind turbines will each generate 600 volts of power which is stepped up to 27.6 kV by transformers. Each project has a number of turbines for a total of over 125 turbines, bringing Lakeshore to the forefront of renewable energy.

Lakeshore has more than 130 active oil wells, accounting for 44% of Ontario's oil production.

In terms of water supply, Lakeshore boasts more than 35 kilometres (25 miles) of shoreline along Lake St. Clair. A new water treatment plant now serves current residents, businesses and generations to come.

Lakeshore works with the Windsor Essex Development Commission to attract business to this area. Please visit their website to learn more about Lakeshore and Essex County.

So whether you are looking to buy from one of our quality manufacturers, visit one of our fine retailers or if you are considering a location from which to service one of the largest market areas on this continent from the most convenient location anywhere, link Lakeshore, Ontario Canada.

For further information and confidential assistance, contact Ruth Coursey, Chief Administrative Officer at (519) 728-2700 or via email at rcoursey@lakeshore.ca.