Annual Hardlines Conference Makes the Move to Scenic Whistler for 2023

The Hardlines Conference in 2023 will have a fresh look—and a new location. This year, the annual summit for industry retailers and executives is moving to Whistler, British Columbia, on Oct. 17 and 18.

Working closely with the Building Supply Industry Association (BSIA) of British Columbia, the Hardlines Conference will be held at the luxurious Fairmont Chateau Whistler resort, located at the base of Blackcomb Mountain.

During the conference, upwards of 200 dealers, retail executives, suppliers and service providers will gather to learn, be inspired and network.

Speakers confirmed so far:

• Jean-Sébastien Lamoureux, senior vice president, RONA Affiliates, Wholesale and Public Affairs
• Geneviève Gagnon, président, Gagnon La Grande Quincaillerie, Evolution Distribution and Evolution Structures
• Cody Smith, director of home and building solutions, Federated Co-operatives Ltd.
• Jim Inglis, retail consultant and former Home Depot executive
• Dr. Kyle Murray, acting dean of the University of Alberta School of Business
• Zaida Fazlic, vice president of people and culture, Taiga Building Products Ltd.
• Peter Norman, vice president and chief economist, Altus Group
• Dan Tratensek, COO and publisher, North American Hardware and Paint Association
• Marilyne and Sylvain Laferriere, owners, Ace Victory Building Centre, Mackenzie, B.C.

Conference attendees will also be able to attend the industry’s Outstanding Retailer Awards, which honor the best of Canada’s hardware and home improvement retailers from coast to coast.

With the involvement of the BSIA, the Hardlines Conference will co-locate with a mini-trade show, the BSIA New Product Showcase, offering a platform for suppliers and other vendors to present their newest innovations. The association will host its members in Whistler to honor the BSIA Orion Award winners as well.

“After attending many successful and enriching Hardlines Conferences in central Canada over the past years, we are excited to be working with the Hardlines Team in Whistler this year,” says Thomas Foreman, president of the BSIA of British Columbia. “We look forward to offering our west coast members an opportunity to join this informative and worthwhile national event.”