Agri-Trade Equipment Expo attracts European exhibitors

“The war in Ukraine is going to have some far reaching implications for manufacturers in Germany. Ukraine was probably the largest market for their equipment and, of course, now, that market is not accessible to them. So they look to North America now as an option and, after much research, they determined that Agri-Trade was the best show for them to introduce their products to North America,” he said.

Fiddler says the show has been sold out for years as dedicated vendors automatically earn a spot the following year. However, he says the wait-list has grown to a never before seen level, with roughly 200 vendors hoping to enter next year’s show.

“There was concern after the pandemic if people would have shifted away from in-person, live trade shows but in the business of agriculture, farmers like to talk to people, look them in the eye and kick the tires and see it live and make comparison notes with other manufacturers. I think the business of Ag trade shows is strong and alive,” he said.

With 200,000 sq. ft. of indoor space and 100,000 sq. ft. of outdoor space all filled, Fiddler says there are no plans to change the location or date of the show to allow for more capacity. He states this time of year is specifically beneficial for farmers as it is harvest season and, therefore, a great time to do business at the show.

From past years, Fiddler anticipates once again between 28,000-30,000 attendees to the event. From a 2017 local economic impact study, he says the shows have brought $250 million to the industry through sales of equipment, technologies and services, as well as $50 million in tourism to central Alberta.

With grocery prices increasing, Fiddler states that Agri-Trade provides an opportunity for farmers to learn how to maximize their efficiency through their equipment, chemicals and fertilizers.

“The whole idea is to develop technologies, processes and products that make farming more efficient. So the more efficient farming can get and the more production farmers can get off their land base, it benefits the whole supply chain,” he said.

Fiddler says not only does he want exhibitors to learn ways of becoming more profitable as a business, but he also wants everyone to have fun. The 14^th Ag Innovations program will be held where companies can showcase their new technology in a pitch-perfect style to a panel of judges for a cash prize as well as a Farmer’s Choice Award.

READ: Agri-Trade Equipment Expo announces 2022 Ag Innovations finalists

Live country music will also be available in the Ag East Gallery by local Innisfail artist Devin Cooper, playing three sets each day starting at 1 p.m.

The show runs from 9 a.m. – 5 p.m. and tickets can be purchased on their website.

by Alessia Proietti

Agri-Trade Equipment Expo attracts European exhibitors

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