The executives of Earls Restaurants, Sysco Canada and Tim Hortons on the hot seat. A front-row behind-the-scenes view of the operations of some of the sectors’ leading producers. An All Star lineup of speakers on the important topics of the day. A fresh vision of strong connections and opportunity for everyone involved in Canada’s beef industry.
These are just a few among many reasons why the motto “If you build it, they will come,” is proving true for Canada’s beef industry, as registrations mount and anticipation builds for the inaugural Canadian Beef Industry Conference, slated for August 9-11 in Calgary. The conference is a joint collaboration of four organizations partnering in the event – the Beef Cattle Research Council (BCRC), Canada Beef, the Canadian Beef Breeds Council (CBBC) and the Canadian Cattlemen’s Association (CCA).
Registrations are over 500 and counting, with opportunities to register still available via the conference website. Over 60 major sponsors have stepped up to lend support. And a first rate conference agenda featuring numerous leading speakers on a wide range of important developments, issues and hot topics is now set, offering plenty of options for all types of interests.
“The response we’ve received both in terms of early registration and sponsorship has been just phenomenal,” says Rob Smith, Canadian Angus Association Chief Executive Officer and co-chair of the conference. “It says a lot about the spirit and positive attitude of our industry from coast to coast, particularly given the current economy in Alberta and the fact this is the first time for our conference.”
“We can’t say enough how much we appreciate the support,” says Virgil Lowe, conference co-chair and also an Associate with Dentons Canada LLP. “And the speakers and agenda that have been pulled together are just incredible. We can’t wait to get started and to see everyone in Calgary. If you haven’t already registered, there’s still time to do it now. Don’t miss this chance to participate.”
The conference, spawned as an idea during discussions around the National Beef Strategy, is designed to create a national meeting place for everyone involved in beef production, from the grass roots level through all parts of the supply chain.
Among many anticipated highlights, given the recent Earls beef controversy, buzz is building around a Beef Demand panel session that will include none other than Earls Restaurants President Mo Jessa as one of the panelists. Interest is also rising around a unique “Bov-innovation” session covering topics such as best options for pre-weaning management, how to improve forage production, how to strengthen internal parasite control programs and how to take advantage of genomic selection tools.
High on the list of attractions for many conference goers is opening day keynote speaker, the high profile entrepreneur and former Dragon’s Den star Arlene Dickinson. The agenda will also include keynote speakers on each of the National Beef Strategy’s four pillars: connectivity, productivity, beef demand and competitiveness, along with educational presentations and interactive workshops on new developments, market and brand opportunities and product innovations. Related events include meetings of the partners, their provincial affiliates and various other beef industry groups, along with the Cattlemen’s Young Leaders selections and graduation.
The early bird registration has passed but the opportunity to register is still available at the regular rate of $450 per person. Although the Grey Eagle Hotel has sold out, limited space is still available at nearby hotels. Full registration includes opening night (Tuesday) reception; also Wednesday night banquet and entertainment, featuring the band Ain’t No Rodeo. Extra tickets are available for purchase for both of these evening events, proving an option for additional guests or for those who want to share in the networking but can’t make it to the full conference.
Source : Canadian Beef Industry Conference