Nestled on the Bonnechere River in Eastern Ontario, Renfrew is a town rich in history, economic opportunity, and community pride. Known as the birthplace of the National Hockey League, the town also boasts connections to notable figures like Dr. Charlotte Whitton, Ottawa’s first female mayor, and renowned author Robertson Davies. Historic landmarks and century-old buildings along Raglan Street preserve Renfrew’s heritage, while the renowned Renfrew Fair, one of Canada’s oldest, continues to draw visitors year after year. With a population of 8,190, the town serves as a hub for a surrounding rural region of over 30,000, blending small-town charm with strategic significance as a gateway for Ottawa-based cottagers and outdoor enthusiasts.
Renfrew’s economy is shaped by its diverse mix of industries, including healthcare, manufacturing, and retail. In the 1980’s and 1990’s, the community’s manufacturing sector was hit hard by plant closures including Westinghouse and Stewart Hartshorn Limited, but the town demonstrated great resilience in protecting its industrial base which continues through Scapa Tapes and nearby Magellan Aerospace, one of the largest manufacturing employers in Renfrew County.
The healthcare sector is vibrant, employing hundreds of works at the community’s hospital and long-term care facilities, including Bonnechere Manor. In recent years, the food service industry has experienced growth, with an increasing number of national franchises establishing restaurants in smaller communities. The most recent expansion by Boston Pizza has created jobs and enhanced the community’s amenities.
Despite economic strides, Renfrew faces challenges with population decline and an aging demographic, with 32.1% of residents aged 65 and older compared to Canada’s 19%. Enrolment has been declining at both the elementary and secondary levels, but investments are being made in education. The Renfrew County Catholic District School Board is nearing completion of the new St. Thomas the Apostle elementary school, a multi-million-dollar projects that created significant construction jobs over the past two years. The new school is attached to St. Joseph’s Catholic High school.
The town’s appeal lies in its balance of historical significance, recreational opportunities, and emerging economic potential. Whether it is the nostalgia of hockey tape produced at Scapa Tapes, the inspiration of Robertson Davies’ novel What’s Bred in the Bone, or the scenic beauty of its river chutes, Renfrew offers a unique blend of culture, history, and opportunity. As infrastructure projects advance and new businesses open their doors, the town is still a vital player in the economic landscape of Renfrew County through its legacy of innovation and resilience.
Written by Christie Laurin, Project Officer at The Labour Market Group of Renfrew and Lanark
