From a bare floor to a state-of-the-art fulfillment centre employing over 800 people— Amazon’s YVR3 in New Westminster celebrates a decade of progress, purpose, and people-first impact.
When Amazon Canada launched its operations in 2002, few could have predicted the scale at which it would grow. From its first fulfillment centre in Ontario to now operating 11 facilities in the Greater Vancouver area alone, the tech giant has become a major economic driver in communities like New Westminster. And this summer, Amazon is proudly celebrating 10 years of YVR3, one of its most pivotal fulfillment centres in British Columbia.
The anniversary celebration, held in tandem with Amazon’s first-ever four-day Prime Day event, was a moment of pride and reflection for hundreds of employees, community leaders, and Amazon executives.
“There’s really nothing more rewarding than seeing people embrace Amazon’s leadership principles and take advantage of educational opportunities to build lifelong careers,” said Eva Lorenz, Vice President and Country Leader for Amazon.ca. “We launched in Canada in 2002, and it’s exciting to see how far we’ve come—especially here at YVR3.”
Having led Amazon Canada since 2022, Lorenz shared her personal 21-year journey through the company—from home goods and Kindle content to now overseeing one of Amazon’s most dynamic markets. She was joined at the event by Acting Mayor Paul Minhas of New Westminster, who commended Amazon for creating jobs, spurring local economic development, and strengthening community partnerships.
“Over the past decade, Amazon has not only transformed the retail landscape, but also enriched our community in countless ways—from employment to innovation,” said Councillor Minhas. “Here’s to the next 10 years of collaboration and growth.”
Since its launch in 2015, YVR3 has evolved into a cutting-edge non-sortable fulfillment centre, handling large items like TVs, furniture, and appliances. The site employs more than 800 associates, and plays a critical role in fulfilling customer orders during peak events like Prime Day.
“When we opened YVR3, there wasn’t even tape on the floor,” recalled Garrett Shaw, Senior Operations Manager and one of the original team members who helped launch the building. “Now, we’ve built something extraordinary—from the ground up. And more than anything, it’s a place where people grow.”
From a seasonal associate in 2013 to a senior leader overseeing multiple departments, Shaw represents Amazon’s commitment to career development. He credits programs like Career Choice—which funds up to 95% of tuition in areas like tech and transportation—as key to the personal growth he’s witnessed both in himself and others.
“One of our associates just got promoted into a corporate IT role—a dream he worked years toward,” said Shaw. “Stories like that are what make this place so special.”
The event also featured a behind-the-scenes tour of the YVR3 facility, showcasing Amazon’s technology, safety systems, sustainability practices, and personalized equipment—from hard hats and harnesses to ergonomic tools and voice-driven suggestion walls where employees help shape the site’s culture.
“Here, we don’t just accept you as you are—we celebrate you as you are,” emphasized Jean-François, YVR3’s General Manager, as he guided attendees through the facility’s latest upgrades and safety innovations.
Throughout the tour, the message was clear: Amazon is about people—building careers, empowering voices, and creating opportunities that last.
As Prime Day kicks off and orders flood in from across Canada, the team at YVR3 is ready to deliver on Amazon’s promise of fast delivery, unmatched selection, and customer obsession—all while keeping its focus on safety, innovation, and community.
After a decade of achievements, the future at YVR3 looks brighter than ever.
