Pictured above: The Northern store in Wabasca, AB

Our Community Promise

The North West Company Inc. is proud of the active role we play within the communities we serve, striving to make a positive, progressive difference. Our contributions within the community of Wabasca, AB, are a testament to our commitment.

As a land rich with inland oil deposits and breathtaking views of the North and South Wabasca Lakes, the Hamlet of Wabasca sets regular examples of strong municipal economies and community-driven environmental stewardship. The Hamlet is just one of the many communities that make up the Wabasca-Desmarais region, which is home to around 3,740 residents (according to Statistics Canada’s 2016 Census) – many of which are citizens of Bigstone Cree Nation.

The name Wabasca is taken from the Cree word wâpaskâw, which means “white grass” and is the Indigenous name for the Wabasca River. Languages spoken in the communities are Cree and English.

Wabasca is located at the intersection of highways 813 and 754, allowing year-round access to the Hamlet and the lands surrounding it. Wabasca also has an airport, but most people have a preference to drive in from Edmonton, which is just 322 km directly south of the community. Otherwise, the airport is used mainly for charter and medical flights.

Did you know?

North West is proud of the positive impact we have on the community.

1. Employment: We are one of the most prominent employers in Wabasca, with our Northern store employing 16 individuals. Our commitment to local talent is demonstrated through our workforce consisting of 56% Indigenous employees.*

2. Capital Investment: Northern has made a $696,545 capital investment in the Wabasca store over a 10-year period.*

3. Annual Economic Impact: Northern is making a positive impact in Wabasca, with $800,928 annual economic impact in the community.*

Wabasca Northern Store Manager, Rob McKinley, and his team are significant community supporters.

Pictured above: The Wabasca team sending their greetings

“Wabasca is a great community to live and work in,” says McKinley. “More than half our staff are from the community, including two of our five managers. We have a very good core team here, and lots of long-term staff that are vital to the success of this store.”

He adds, “The people of Wabasca are very welcoming and a pleasure to work with. We have a good relationship with the community, which has always pulled together in times of need to help one another out. We try to follow their lead by supporting the food bank and other community organizations whenever we can.”

*For the year ending 2020