ASSINIBOIA - A tradition that has taken place each spring in Assiniboia for more than four decades is set to host its biggest Spring Trade Show yet.
Laurie Stianson, Assiniboia Chamber of Commerce Chairperson said, “This is an exciting year as we have been rebuilding our numbers ever since COVID. As of April 10, we already have 70 vendors registered. Our sellout is considered capped at around 73.”
Assiniboia’s Spring Trade Show, organized and hosted by the Assiniboia Chamber of Commerce, takes place every other year. The last time the event was held, 63 booths were in the building, back for the first time since the pandemic.
The highly anticipated spring activity takes place at the Prince of Wales Cultural Centre on Friday, May 3 and Saturday, May 4, with trade show booths set up in both the auditorium and the curling arena.
“Admission is $10, which is the first time in forever we raised the price from $5, with 12 and under still admitted free. Admission gets the attendee’s name in for multiple door prizes generously donated by businesses, showing their support,” added Stianson.
The opportunity to explore unique shopping opportunities, visit with others attending the show will be complimented by the amazing weekend concession provided by Marita at Fresh Start.
“The booth offers a really nice variety of food items, not just deep-fried booth food. Fresh Start is always a crowd pleaser and many times we are told people come just to enjoy her food.”
Curtis Nelson from the Civic Improvement Association will have spring fever lottery tickets available throughout the weekend.
Organizers said this year’s Trade Show offers something for every generation. There will be booths in agriculture, automotive, home décor, finance and insurance, spa, hot bubs, jewellery and much more.
The Trade Show attractive factor brings increased traffic to town and when that occurs, it provides economic spinoffs to other sectors including food, fuel, hotels and shopping. Out-of-town vendors will be staying in Assiniboia and supplies purchased by both organizers and vendors also come from the host community.
The Chamber included, “bringing businesses in our trading area brings our communities together, all under one roof and provides both networking opportunities, increased business exposure and social opportunities.”
An exhibitor’s lounge will be open at the Prince of Wales on Friday night from 8 to 11 p.m. for a chance to pop up and mingle with fellow trade show vendors.
A 24-year veteran of the Assiniboia Chamber, and long-time community volunteer, Stianson is quick to defer accolades to herself, instead she commended younger people coming on the board and others from outside the Chamber of Commerce who are part of the committee hosting this event. All of these people roll up their sleeves and work behind the scenes before and throughout the weekend to ensure a successful experience for everyone to enjoy.
Stianson affirmed that the benefits of Assiniboia’s Trade Show are clear, it’s all about the people. Exhibitors get a chance to meet new customers, network with other businesses, develop new business contacts or even members of the media. Attendees get an opportunity to see businesses that aren’t all from their home community, experience unique shopping opportunities from home-based businesses and other vendors as well as enjoy the social engagement with other attendees.
