Valleywide trade show cancelled

A trade show hosted by Okanagan chambers of commerce has been cancelled due to the ongoing disruption to numerous businesses caused by the August wildfires.

The event, called Valleywide Business Expo, had been set for Sept. 14 in Lake Country.

“It was a tough decision to make,” Lauren Martell, Kelowna Chamber’s manager of member services, said. “We had multiple businesses which signed up to display their goods and services, as well as members and sponsors who were looking forward to supporting and attending.”

However, Martell said what they heard over the past week to ten days convinced them that a September business trade show just wasn’t a good idea.

“Numerous business owners have reached out to us with stories of unfortunate business disruption, booking cancellations, and uncertain fall finances and staff levels as a result of the wildfires.”

Martell said all the participating chambers agreed with the decision, and refunds and cancellation notices are being sent out and will be complete Sept. 14.

“Our hard-working chambers will continue to support local businesses through their programs and initiatives as valley residents slowly return home, back to school and work, and many begin the long process of rebuilding.”

Martell said they particularly appreciate the sponsorship of TD who have been a key part of the event for many years.

“We’ll all be back in force in 2024.”