Chilliwack-area First Nation accepting lease proposals for shuttered market site

• Share on Facebook
• Share on Bluesky
• Share on X
• Copy Link

Additional weighting will be given to proposals submitted by Cheam members.

Class-action lawsuit

Claim deadline this Friday in settlement related to stored property during 2021 Abbotsford floods

27m ago

Open to new business ideas

Chilliwack-area First Nation accepting lease proposals for shuttered market site

49m ago

Motor vehicle crash

Man seen sprinting on Abbotsford road allegedly involved in overnight crash: Abbotsford PD

1h ago

Lease proposals can be submitted through cheamlands@cheamband.com.

Back in July 2026, the economic arm of Cheam First Nation band announced the temporary closure of a community market that sold produce, salmon and artisan goods.

Cheam Enterprises Inc. (CEI), a Cheam First Nation-owned entity pursuing economic development with a focus on the well-being of its members, penned a letter to the community confirming the closure of Xwchíyò:m Market, located at 10235 Agassiz-Rosedale Highway. The letter was dated July 20, 2026.

The decision to close the market was made as part of CEI’s commitment to devoting resources to sustainable economic development opportunities that create long-term value for the band and its people.

“While retail operations are pausing, the building remains an important community asset with future potential for entrepreneurship, partnerships, and new business opportunities. CEI extends its sincere thanks to all staff, customers, and community members who supported the market throughout its operation,” CEI wrote in a letter signed by interim CEO Jason Metcalfe.

The market was established with a mentality that didn’t stop at just retail operations. CEI said it had hoped to create a welcoming gathering place for community members while providing access to local products, services, and employment opportunities. Over the past several months, its team endeavoured to support that vision and provide a positive space for the community.

“Despite these efforts, the market has not achieved the level of financial performance required to operate sustainably. As CEI continues to strengthen its focus on long-term economic development and the success of its core businesses, we must ensure that resources and capital are directed toward opportunities that generate sustainable returns and support future growth for the Nation,” CEI’s letter stated.