Use available statistics to determine the general characteristics of this area. Use local sources to determine unique characteristics about your trading area. This is your trading area. Estimating the number of individuals or households can be done with little difficulty using Statistics Canada census data. Statistics Canada's Family Expenditure Survey can identify what the average household spends on goods and services.
Most provinces offer population forecasts for various areas in the province.
Information on planned construction is available from a variety of sources. Directories like the Yellow Pages can help identify names of companies located in your trading area. Neighbourhood business owners, the local Chamber of Commerce, and the community newspaper are some sources that can give you insight into unique characteristics of your area. Get out on the street and study your competitors. Visit their stores or the locations where their product is offered.