KAWARTHA LAKES- The City of Kawartha Lakes in collaboration with the local Chambers of Commerce and the Lindsay Downtown BIA, is conducting a Business Count Survey for the second year in a row.
During its inaugural year in 2021, the Business Count canvassed 262 businesses across Kawartha Lakes according to officials.
This survey provides a snapshot of the Kawartha Lakes business community and is meant to help better understand and strengthen the local economy, as well as inform policies and programs.
The 2021 highlights show business insights from the survey pilot areas.
Highlights reported by these businesses:
- A total of 1,935 jobs
- 862,528 sq ft floor space occupied by surveyed businesses
- 34% business surveyed plan to hire in the future
- 58% of businesses surveyed are members of a local business organization
- 70% businesses with employees working from home anticipate employees will continue to work from home after the pandemic
In 2021 32% of the businesses were retail, 17% accommodation and food service and 8% manufacturing. You can find the full 2021 report here:https://www.kawarthalakes.ca/en/business-growth/resources/Ec-Dev-Studies-and-Reports/2021-Kawartha-Lakes-Business-Count-Final-Report.pdf
Officials say the team is looking to expand the Business Count Survey this year by visiting more businesses in Kawartha Lakes’ downtowns and industrial areas. The program will run until the end of August and include areas like Bobcaygeon, Coboconk, Fenelon Falls, Lindsay, Norland, Pontypool, Omemee and surrounding areas. Businesses will be canvassed by in-person visits, phone calls or email.
Staff is encouraging businesses to take part in the survey to have their voices heard and help shape the future of our communities. All businesses located in Kawartha Lakes are invited to participate online at Kawartha Lakes Business Count.
The 2022 Business Count Insights Report will be available in early 2023.
