2023 Hardlines Conference

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, B.C., on Oct. 17 and 18.

Working closely with the Building Supply Industry Association of British Columbia, the Hardlines Conference will be held at one of the most stunning locations on the planet—the luxurious Fairmont Chateau Whistler resort, located at the base of Blackcomb Mountain. There we will welcome upwards of 200 dealers, retail executives, suppliers, and service providers to learn, get inspired, and network.

Speakers confirmed so far:

• Jean-Sébastien Lamoureux, Senior Vice President, RONA Affiliates, Wholesale and Public Affairs 
• Geneviève Gagnon, President, 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, former Home Depot executive 
• Dr. Kyle Murray, Acting Dean of the University of Alberta School of Business
• Zaida Fazlic, Vice President, 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 & Sylvain Laferriere, owners, Ace Victory Building Centre, Mackenzie, B.C.

The conference will also be the scene for the industry’s Outstanding Retailer Awards, which honour 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 honour 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,” said 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.”

This year’s conference will feature some welcome traditions. The RONA Pub Night will take place Oct. 16, the night before the conference begins, to welcome delegates. The Home Hardware Cocktail Reception will precede the Outstanding Retail Awards Gala on Oct. 17. 

Click here for more information on the 27th Annual Hardlines Conference. Dealers get a special discount on registration. Contact Michelle Porter, michelle@hardlines.ca, for your exclusive dealer discount code!