Across Canada, the low-rise non-residential sector—think offices, retail stores, warehouses, and restaurants—presents a major growth opportunity for structural wood systems, including light wood-frame, heavy timber, mass timber, and hybrid construction.

Together, retail, office, and light industrial warehouse buildings account for nearly 75% of new floor space in this market each year. Yet despite their scale, these segments continue to show low uptake of structural wood.

As retailers adapt to the shift toward online shopping and businesses compete to attract talent, the design and performance of their buildings matter more than ever. Wood offers a sustainable, visually appealing solution that enhances employee well-being and elevates commercial spaces.

This new technical publication explores the market potential, challenges, and the role wood can play in redefining this sector.