Westburne trade show returns to Wheat City

Westburne is set to bring together industry leaders, manufacturers and customers from across western Manitoba when it hosts its annual trade show today at the Victoria Inn.

The event, which is expected to welcome nearly 250 participants from across the region, coincides with the company’s 100th anniversary and will focus on emerging technologies, industry trends and business growth opportunities.

Westburne Midwest general manager Leigh Budd said the trade show will provide attendees with opportunities to connect directly with manufacturer partners, learn about new technologies and explore solutions to challenges facing the construction, agricultural, energy and industrial sectors.

“In local markets like Brandon and Dauphin, we have spent decades supporting the growth and success of local industry, infrastructure and businesses by providing the products, expertise and partnership needed to keep projects moving forward,” Budd told the Sun.

“What stands out most is the consistency of that commitment — being a trusted partner to agricultural communities, industrial, commercial, government and facility management businesses across generations as the region has evolved and grown.”

He said the trade show has become a fixture for many businesses across southwestern Manitoba, having been held for more than 15 years.

“While the core purpose of the event has remained the same, the technology and innovations on display have evolved significantly,” he said. “As industries continue to modernize, the event serves as an important forum for sharing knowledge, building and maintaining relationships and helping our customers stay ahead of the curve.”

Westburne, which has over 100 branches across Canada and is headquartered in Mississauga, Ont., operates as one of the country’s market leaders in electrical solutions and as a distributor of supplies for industrial and commercial markets.

The company has operated in Manitoba since 1967 and employs more than 80 people across the province.

Budd said Manitoba remains a key market for the company because of its diverse economy, which includes construction, agriculture, food processing, manufacturing, hydroelectricity, mining and institutional operations.

He said that Brandon and southwestern Manitoba are particularly important because they serve as economic hubs supporting many of these industries.

“Our focus is on ensuring we can provide the products, expertise and services that help our customers succeed in these markets,” Budd said. “As opportunities arise, we are always exploring ways to strengthen our presence and expand our footprint throughout the region.”

Attendees at this year’s trade show can expect discussions on several issues currently shaping the marketplace. Budd said there are growing concerns around cybersecurity, the adoption of artificial intelligence and automation, supply chain resilience and the increasing cost of operational downtime.

“These topics were rarely discussed a decade ago, but are now critical considerations for businesses across the construction, energy, agricultural and industrial sectors,” he said.

As the company celebrates its centennial year, Budd said the message he hopes attendees take away from the event is one of long-term commitment.

“Our focus is on being here for the long term,” he said. “That means continuing to invest in the people, the inventory and the relationships that our customers in this region depend on. We want attendees to leave this year’s event knowing they have a trusted partner committed to helping them navigate challenges, seize new opportunities and achieve long-term growth together.”

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