Tregaron is one of six strategic towns in Ceredigion. Four of these towns – Tregaron, Lampeter, Llandysul and Cardigan – are located on the Teifi river, forming the eastern and southern boundaries of the county. 

Tregaron sits within its own hinterland encompassing the Teifi valley, the slopes of Mynydd Bach and the largely unpopulated upland area to the east. The area is lightly populated and largely agricultural. Historically, Tregaron has been the economic and social focal point of this area providing health, education and retail and commercial services (such as the Mart, abattoir, farmers co-op etc.).

The area has been self-contained although tourism has played a small part in the economy. Outward migration of young and skilled people has been an ongoing feature for at least 200 years, particularly of young people. Inward migration, mainly from England, has also been a feature since the 1970s.

Social and economic measures for the area indicate high employment (often with multiple jobs) but low income per head, low added value per head and few professional workers. Most businesses have fewer than five employees with a handful of private sector businesses with over ten employees. The public sector employs over 50% of employees, but has been shrinking.

There are some very successful small/medium sized businesses, usually family run, that have invested in their businesses over time and continue to see modest expansion. More of these need to be encouraged in order to provide good quality jobs to stem outward migration.  The public sector has been withdrawing from comprehensive provision of services since 2010. Overall, for a town of its size, Tregaron has very good public service provision – including a variety of retail stores and businesses, and markets which provide local produce.

Spar, Caron stores and two butchers provide good retail services. Y Talbot provides four star hotel accommodation, pub, restaurant and functions/ meeting facilities. Two other bars, the Llew and Sunnyhill, have reopened in recent years. Rhiannon jewellers and art/gift centre provide a high quality visitor attraction as well as a café. The three closed bank properties have all been bought and are being converted into holiday accommodation, restaurant and office space.

The area surrounding Tregaron includes the bog, mountain and lakes and attractive agricultural land whilst Cardigan Bay has a number of excellent beaches within 30-60 minutes’ drive. Surrounding towns offer places such as an arts centre, National library, a wide range of national retail chains and attractive promenades and beaches.

There is an active cultural life with many clubs and organisations. Tregaron is a very attractive place to live, work and bring up a family.

Whilst Tregaron and the surrounding area has many attractions, it has not succeeded in substantially broadening or increasing its economic base and employment opportunities. There are a number of improvements that could be made to further enhance the attraction of the town both to residents and visitors. In order to retain and attract young people and to enhance its skill and talent base, Tregaron needs to provide opportunities and initiatives.