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Agribition celebrating another successful year

Apr 5, 2018 | 4:30 PM

It was another stellar year for Canadian Western Agribition (CWA), the first that took advantage of the new international trade centre (ITC) at Evraz Place.

At its annual general meeting held in Regina Thursday, CWA announced a profit from operations of $270, 411 and a provincial economic impact of $73.6 million annually.

“The ITC not only offers the most modern livestock space in Canada, it symbolizes the future of CWA and its mission to be the most sought-after agriculture marketplace in the world,” said CWA President, Bruce Holmquist. “It cannot be overstated how important the construction of the new building is to CWA and we again thank everyone who was involved in seeing the dream become a reality.”

A number of records were set at the 2017 show including $2 million in purebred cattle sales; over 27,000 attendees at evening entertainment events; 365 international buyers from 86 different countries; and CWA posted their highest-ever operating revenue of $4.6 million.

The focus for the 2018 show will be hospitality and execution, with the first new programming addition for 2018 being an after-party cabaret in the Brandt Centre on Saturday night following the final Pro Rodeo performance.

“We will continue to evolve to meet the challenges ahead with the spirit and passion that has sustained us since our inception,” says Holmquist. “CWA is strong, stable and positioned for growth not only as Canada’s foremost agriculture marketplace but also as a community organization contributing to the economy and spirit of Saskatchewan.”

CWA provided $1 million toward the building of the new ITC.

The 2018 Agribition is scheduled for Nov. 19 to Nov. 24.