Coquitlam is a hub of innovation. Our central location and easy access by all modes of transportation are just a few benefits to being based in this city. Add to that a strong entrepreneurial spirit and robust economy, and Coquitlam is well positioned for success.
But wait; don’t just take it from us. See what these local business leaders have to say about why they love doing business in Coquitlam.
To the thousands of business owners who are based in Coquitlam, we thank you! Our community wouldn’t be the same without you.
Coquitlam is a hub of innovation. Our central location and easy access by all modes of transit are just a few benefits to being based in this city. But wait, don’t just take it from us.
These local businesses speak about what they feel are the greatest benefits to doing business in Coquitlam.
Shaun Ashworth is the president of Associated Labels and Packaging, which started as a small label printing plant in 1981. Today, the company supplies labels and packaging to clients around North America.
The benefits of being located in Coquitlam would have to be the centralized location within Metro Vancouver. We are lucky to be so close to the highway to receive raw goods and also to send out finished goods. We are also surrounded by a diverse and skilled workforce both in Coquitlam and the surrounding cities.
Other companies should come to Coquitlam for the livability of life in terms of the mountains, water and amenities; and accessibility for work in terms of workforce, transportation, and close proximity to other companies.
Co-owner of Ayoub’s Dried Fruits and Nuts Ray Rostami and his family moved from Tehran, Iran in 2003 and set up this business based on Glen Drive in Coquitlam. Today, they have five locations throughout Metro Vancouver. He speaks about how the local community has embraced his business.
Coquitlam is a great city and has nice people. It’s like a family. It has the second-largest community of Persians after North Vancouver. We had the same business in Tehran for over 25 years, so people remember us. I like how Coquitlam is central, easy to get around.
Since starting up this web design and digital marketing company in 2016, Gary Karki has quickly accrued a loyal clientele and top ranks among Google reviews. CustomizePress specializes in digital marketing, web development and search engine optimization (SEO), based out a home office in Burke Mountain. Client meetings are held at Headquarters Office Services, a shared office rental space on Lincoln Avenue.
While Karki has generated a strong customer base in Coquitlam, clients approach him from all over Metro Vancouver. Business has been busy and he often hires contractors on a project basis.
Most of my customers are starting up a new business and need a professional website. There are so many professional people living here and businesses are thriving. It seems like many people are moving here - starting a family - and there are lots of opportunities. I am constantly busy, all year round.
Eco Paving was recently named one of British Columbia’s fastest-growing companies. President Bradley Lavigne speaks about the benefits of being based in Coquitlam.
We chose Coquitlam due to its central location in the Lower Mainland and the many opportunities available here. There are also many great businesses close by where we get our supplies. A lot of people are surprised as we are based in Coquitlam. The majority of our clients in the area appreciate the fact we are a local company.
Co-founder of Mariner Brewing Byron Vallis speaks about why the brewery eyed Coquitlam as its number one location choice.
Coquitlam is growing rapidly, and with it interest in craft beer is growing. The community and the culture really make it a great place to brew, and to enjoy craft beer. We grew up in Coquitlam so it really seemed perfect to open up in our home turf. Coquitlam’s central location and active culture make it a great place for a brewery. Our tasting room is located a five-minute walk from the SkyTrain on Barnet Highway.
MedRay Imaging located and expanded its business to Coquitlam in 2007. CEO Randy Webster cites the city’s large population base, significant growth, central location and easy SkyTrain access.
Coquitlam is a growing, diverse community that provides for a robust customer base. We also have access to quality talent and a supply of local businesses that can support our business needs. The transportation system in Coquitlam and the introduction of the Evergreen Extension to SkyTrain really was a game-changer for businesses, connecting the Tri-Cities with the rest of the Lower Mainland.
Allison Bran, marketer and founder of REX Marketing + Design Inc., which specializes in brand development, speaks about why she chose to move her business to Coquitlam.
We used to run REX from a downtown [Vancouver] office but, when I got married and started a family, the downtown commute wasn’t productive. As an entrepreneur, part of what convinced me that the Tri Cities was a great place to raise my family was the growing business district in Coquitlam - and it’s surpassed my expectations! It’s clear that the City has put a lot of thought in to planning for business growth and opportunity, from office space, proximity to services and amenities, polished City landscaping, and the awesome Evergreen Line. Our clients come out to visit our office and, every time, they remark on how much Coquitlam has grown and how they can’t believe the professional polish of the area. I’m always proud to showcase our Coquitlam head office and our community. It is a great place to grow a business.
Chartered Professional Accountant Sharon Perry, whose office is located in Austin Heights, speaks about why she loves being based in Coquitlam.
Coquitlam is a city central to everything within the lower mainland. Coquitlam is also my home and where I raise my family. I love being part of building the community, to be more thriving and a draw for businesses and residents alike.
Founder Andrew Gee transitioned Tech Futures to a new headquarters in Coquitlam because they needed a bigger space to support the infrastructure side of the company, requiring easy access to a fibre optic network.
Coquitlam’s QNet was a major deciding factor, in that it’s economical and quick to get up and running. For businesses looking for office space or looking to move locations, the fact that Coquitlam has fibre network is a huge plus. Working with QNet has also opened up opportunities, connecting customers to us who are looking for internet services. We would recommend QNet and encourage others to select the City of Coquitlam.
Are you a Coquitlam business owner who would like to submit a testimonial? Please email the Economic Development Office.