Retail Trade and Commercial
In 2001, close to 50 percent of the Maple Ridge workforce was employed in the service sector (excluding the public sector and accommodation). This percentage is expected to gradually increase as the economy shifts from a goods-producing base to a service base. Major commercial nodes include downtown and western Maple Ridge along Lougheed Highway.
There is a major opportunity for retailers to locate in Maple Ridge and service the regional trade area population, currently in excess of 130,000 people.
Growth in the retail sector is expected to accelerate in the future as constraints to growth are relaxed, notably through the construction of the Golden Ears Bridge and population growth. Competitive tax rates, a good investment climate and competitive development cost charges, together with the long-term implementation of strategic recommendations made in the District's Commercial Land Use Study, will attract more retail businesses and encourage more local shopping.
Implementation of the proposed Town Centre Concept Plan will also contribute to greater retail growth, taking advantage of an evolving trend in retail toward more localized developments close to new residential growth. Some of this new space will be in redevelopments. The GVRD has projected a 65 percent increase in retail space for Maple Ridge and Pitt Meadows between now and 2021, which will more than double its share of total regional space from three to seven percent. A 45 percent increase in office space is also expected by 2021.
Retail Profile
| Activity Measures | Number | % of Total |
| Total Labour Force | 33,380 | 100% |
| Retail and Wholesale Trade Labour Force | 5,485 | 16.4% |
| Services Labour Force | 14,145 | 42.4% |
| Personal Income (2001) Wholesale | $49,965 | - |
| Personal Income (2001) Retail | $36,840 | - |
| Retail and Services Business Licences | 1,726 | 78.7% |
| Total Retail Floor Space (thousands sq. metres 2001) | 168 | 3% |
| Total Office Floor Space (thousands sq metres 2001) | 33 | 1% |
Major Employers |
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| Arcus Community Services | Westcoast Ford Lincoln | |
| Save-On Foods | FSR Treatment Inc. | |
Major Nodes |
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| Downtown | Lougheed Highway/Dewdney Trunk |