Trade show swings back into operation in Medicine Hat

“Because of the recent events over the last few years it’s important for business to be out and be back in the community and see those faces and promote their businesses, because honestly, there were some businesses that didn’t make it through those years,” the chamber’s Bailey Warner told CHAT News.

However, COVID did throw things off with planning the event this time around, resulting in about half as many vendors being allowed to participate, compared to previous years

“We usually have our trade show, I think it’s the first week of March, and this year we had pushed it back with COVID restrictions,” Warner said.

And the new timing of the trade show lead to sharing the Cypress Centre this weekend with the Honky Tonks and Spring Rodeo.

It also means a change of entrance to the trade show, says Warner.

“The new entrance (is) in the auditorium so I think that is going to be a shift for Medicine Hat goers.”

At the show Friday, Scarlett Murphy was selling compact treadmills, and was one of about 125 vendors on hand.

“Being here, selling stuff making people happy.. it’s a really exciting part of this,” Murphy said

City Hall, meanwhile, is also taking part in the trade show, and is promoting local activities.

“I think like everyone here, we’re excited to be able to see people around each other and socializing. We certainly see that in our rec facilities around the community as well as our arts and culture facilities,” James Will, parks and recreation director said.

The owners of Soul Sisters Apparel are participating at the show for the first time after setting up an online clothing shop during the pandemic

“A lot of people watch us online but haven’t actually been able to meet us or see everything. I think that makes a difference when they see how approachable we are,” Sonya Murray said.

And Ben Weir’s back for the second time at the trade show with his videography operation, Octal7 Inc.

He says the pandemic dried up some of his client base and he hopes for a change.

“Looking for new prospects I suppose is one way of putting it with doing an event like this, and having some glimmer of hope that things will continue to improve.”

Before the pandemic, upwards of 10,000 people turned out for the show. But how many people will show up this time, the Chamber of Commerce isn’t sure.

They can, however, sum up the experience of having the show resume.

“It’s a big deal,” Warner laughs.

The trade show wraps up Sunday at 4 pm

by Darren Rathwell

Trade show swings back into operation in Medicine Hat

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