A campaign is being undertaken to change the ‘image and reputation’ of the RMWB.

The Wood Buffalo Economic Development Corporation gave a presentation to Wood Buffalo council on Tuesday highlighting their plan to improve the local economy.

President and CEO Kevin Weidlich says too many people have an opinion of the region despite never being here.

“The reason is to overcome the image and reputation that is etched in people’s mind that is not as favourable as we would like it to be.”

The WBEDC has developed four pillars to help make this happen – brand and corporate services, business and investment attraction, tourism, and entrepreneurship and innovation.

Weidlich believes following through on these initiatives will encourage more people to set up shop here, visit the region, and keep local residents from spending money in different communities.

According to the organization, around $435 million is spent by residents on retail outside of Wood Buffalo each year.

Mayor Don Scott tells Mix News this needs to be fixed as soon as possible.

“Please shop in this region, it is absolutely crucial to the success of all the businesses in this region, we want to see more people shopping here at every opportunity.”

Without sharing the names, Weidlich says multiple new businesses are expected to move to the region in 2020.

Meanwhile, the WBEDC has been able to generate around $10.5 million in economic impact over its first 10 months.

-With files from Brandon Piper