The valley had always profited from trade over the Gemmi and Lötschen Passes. A "sust" or warehouse and mountain pass way station was built in Kanderbrück in the 16th century, though similar buildings existed since at least the Middle Ages. During the 16th century the local economy also began to change. Instead of raising a variety of crops, the local farmers began to specialize in raising cattle for export. The village now had to import grain from the Swiss Plateau. Around 1850 the economy shifted again as lace and watch factories moved into the valley. A match stick factory also opened in Frutigen in 1850.