A Moment with the Mayor: Business in Lloydminster

Business, particularly small businesses, makes our community and surrounding area the great place that it is to shop and live.

Small business in Lloydminster dates itself back to the fur trade when Indigenous Peoples traded furs for commercial items. As the trails and railways led many Europeans is to Western Canada, merchants followed them. Soon communities were established around a grain elevator and livestock assembly yards. Some of the first businesses were blacksmiths and general stores.

As communities grew, so did the number of small businesses wanting and needing to offer goods and services to farming neighbours and those choosing to live in the community. Often business people formed groups like a Board of Trade. They helped organize community events and offered support to make these events happen. Businesses pulled together for the betterment of all. These important roots continue to serve Lloydminster today and into the future.

The Lloydminster Chamber of Commerce recently gathered to celebrate business excellence in our community. We’re blessed to have both large and small businesses in our community. A small business is defined as having less than 100 employees, of which 96% of our companies in Lloydminster fall into.

The gathering of businesses showcased several award categories, with multiple businesses nominated in each category. Many local businesses were recognized for their service and excellent staff. It was a great evening to celebrate local success.

As we move through 2021, I wish every business in Lloydminster could receive an award of excellence as we have so many businesses working hard to meet the needs of their customers in this challenging time. Business is essential to the fabric of our community, and we appreciate the volunteering, donations and all the ways that businesses contribute.

I thank the business owners, managers and staff for all they do to make Lloydminster a great place to live, work and do business!

Mayor Gerald S. Aalbers
City of Lloydminster