The Stettler Trade Show had another great year.
Setting records for the second year in a row, the Trade Show was held April 14-16 at the Stettler Recreation Centre.
Over the three days, 3,550 went through the doors to check out what the different vendors offered.
“It was really good,” said Stettler Regional Board of Trade (BOT) executive director Byron Geddes.
“Every year we seem to have a better response.”
According to an update provided to the town in the council’s May 2 agenda package, 46 percent of the vendors attending the nearly sold-out show were new for 2023.
Geddes says the feedback received from vendors and attendees has been positive.
“People who were at the Trade Show this year were more engaging,” said Geddes.
“Some feedback, this year the Trade Show was more friendly than it has ever been.”
As for the vendors, Geddes says that the Trade was at around 95 per cent capacity, which allowed the vendor booths to be spaced a little more.
“It was very successful for a lot of exhibitors,” said Geddes. “Others said it wasn’t as good for them as last year.”
Geddes attributes the difference for some vendors to the economy.
“Money is a little tighter this year.”
Despite that, Geddes feels “the Trade Show was highly successful.”
In addition to the exhibitors, there was a full slate of entertainment held on the stage in the red arena over the weekend.
Local band The Young Guns performed on Friday evening, while Anthony Holland and friends, William E. Hay’s Wildcat Theatre, a magician and a variety of other entertainment took place through the three days as well.
The 2024 Stettler Trade Show has already been set for April 12-14, and prospective vendors will be able to begin applying for booths in July.
“It is great to see and hear how Stettler is becoming one of Central Alberta’s biggest and best shows to attend,” said project manager Donna Morris, in the May 2 town update. “This could not be possible without the support of the vendors and the volunteers who assist. It truly is a community event.”
