Drayton Valley is driven by a strong industrial and commercial sector. The town itself is a product of the 1953 Pembina oil fields boom. To this day, oil and gas is still the number one industry in the area. The forestry and agriculture industries are close behind, though—they provide the diversity needed to maintain the area’s strong economy. In the last ten years, a tourism industry has emerged, and it shows great promise for the future.
As the trading centre for a much larger area the retail and professional service sectors of Drayton Valley are also thriving. Our distance from Edmonton has created a need for self-sufficiency. Now, the majority of goods and services can be purchased in town. Recognizing Drayton Valley’s strong economy, a number of retail chains have established themselves in town.
The investor confidence in our town is apparent by how many franchises have selected Drayton Valley. The several privately-operated businesses provide a well-rounded business community.
Weyerhaeuser Company is a major player in Drayton Valley’s economy. Their forestry projects include timberland operations and a softwood lumber mill. Weyerhaeuser has a long-term future in Drayton Valley and we welcome further forestry work and the economic stability that comes with it.
There are several other industry leaders making significant contributions to our economy. Many of them have been pioneers in their respective fields. The Town of Drayton Valley is proud to be associated with these industry leaders and we are pleased that they will continue to do business in our town.
Agriculture is the other main driver of our economy. Most agricultural activities focus on the cattle industry and related support services. Recently, diversification into other areas, such as horse production, game farming, exotic animals, dairy and oilseeds, has developed.
Drayton Valley also has a thriving small-business community. Drayton Valley’s strengths in retail, trade, service and manufacturing, supported by a resources base of oil, gas, lumber and agriculture, have provided the town with a very stable growth pattern over the years which we expect will continue for years to come.