Translation Services in Kelowna – Economic Profile

The city of Kelowna with a metropolitan area population of about 166,000 people is located on Okanagan Lake in the Okanagan Valley in British Columbia. The Regional District of the Central Okanagan is the third largest metropolitan area in British Columbia.

The city’s economy is heavily based on agriculture and the service sector, in particular tourism. The region has a very mild and dry climate which is favorable for growing vine. Wines produced in the Kelowna region have a worldwide reputation, and the most renowned vineyards include Mission Hill Estate Winery which is also known for its beautiful architecture.

In addition, Kelowna is the headquarters of Sun-Rype, a major producer of fruit juice and snacks.

The tourist industry is one of the most important economic sectors, and the city offers numerous activities such as boating or Alpine Skiing at the Big White Ski Resort. Further famous attractions and venues in Kelowna include the Alternator Art Gallery, the Rotary Center for the Arts, the Kelowna Art Gallery, the Kelowna Museum, Kelowna Marina on Okanagan Lake, the Kelowna Farmer’s Market, Kasugai Gardens, and many more.

Kelowna is also an important transportation center. Kelowna International Airport serves many national and international destinations such as Edmonton, Toronto, Vancouver, Las Vegas, Honolulu, as well as to Mexico.

Kelowna is also bustling college town featuring three institutions of higher education: the Okanagan campus of the University of British Columbia, Okanagan College and Sprott-Shaw Community College.

Kelowna has experienced a significant influx of international immigrants, in particular Europeans. The most prevalent communities include Scottish, German, Irish, French, Ukrainian, Dutch, Polish, Norwegian, Swedish, Russian, Italian and many more. In addition, there is a significant Native Canadian population.

Kelowna’s focus on national and international tourism as well as its wine industry and its diverse ethnic makeup have created a significant demand for translation and interpreting services in this city.