The manufacturing sector includes businesses that are primarily engaged in the physical or chemical transformation of materials and/or components into new products. These products may be either finished (ready for final consumption) or semi-finished (used for further processing). Related activities such as assembly, blending, or finishing are also treated as manufacturing activities.

In 2023, there were 148 businesses engaged in the manufacturing sector. This sector accounts for 2.3% of licensed businesses operating in the City of Nanaimo. The manufacturing sector, employing 2,117 people, accounts for 4.3% of Nanaimo’s labour force.

Businesses continue to choose Nanaimo for affordable commercial real estate, transportation infrastructure, robust business networks, and other such factors that bring a competitive edge to Nanaimo’s businesses.

Click here for an extensive list of manufacturers in Nanaimo.