Announcing One-Year Pause of Trade Show to Lead Major Revamp

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Fort Saskatchewan & Lamont County Chamber of Commerce Announces 
One-Year Pause of Trade Show to Lead Major Revamp

Fort Saskatchewan, AB — December 3rd, 2025

The Fort Saskatchewan & Lamont County Regional Chamber of Commerce has announced that the 2026 Chamber Trade Show will be paused for one year as the
organization undertakes a comprehensive redesign of the long-standing event. The
Chamber’s Board of Directors recently voted in favour of the pause after reviewing
participation trends, industry changes, and community feedback.

For more than four decades, the Chamber Trade Show has showcased local
businesses, entrepreneurs, and community spirit. However, as trade shows across
Canada continue to evolve in response to shifting consumer habits, online shopping,
and the aftermath of the COVID-19 pandemic, the Chamber sees this as a strategic
moment to modernize the event.

“Although there will undoubtedly be some disappointment surrounding this news, it
affords the Chamber a great opportunity to take the time to revisit the trade show —
what it means for the Chamber, for local businesses, and for the community — and how we can ‘come back better,’” said Colin Fagnan, Executive Director. “Taking a pause for one year means we can ensure that when this event returns, it reaches greater heights.”

A dedicated Trade Show Revitalization Committee, chaired by the Chamber’s new
President, Wade Robichaud, is being formed to lead the redesign. This committee will
examine new formats, fresh ideas, and innovative approaches — potentially including a new look and even a new name for the event when it returns.

“A pause like this is never taken lightly, but it’s the right call. Our role is to build for the
future, not simply repeat the past,” said Robichaud. “This gives us the clarity and
capacity to design an event that truly reflects the strength and direction of our business community. When the trade show returns, it will do so with purpose, relevance, and a standard worthy of our region.”

As part of this renewed focus, the Chamber will also use the additional time and
resources to expand the Chamber Career & Hiring Expo, formerly the Job Fair. This expansion reflects ongoing labour market challenges and the need to support
employers and job seekers (particularly youth) in a difficult economic environment.

Trade shows everywhere are changing, but the Chamber is confident that this
temporary pause will pave the way for a revitalized event that better reflects today’s
business landscape and community needs. The Chamber Trade Show will return after
this one-year pause — stronger, refreshed, and more aligned with the future of local
commerce.

For more information or to express interest in joining the Trade Show Revitalization
Committee, please contact the Chamber office at info@fortsaskchamber.com or call
780-998-4355.

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