So what is the purpose of events such as Showcase, the Estevan Business Expo anyway?
We sometimes hear the skeptics levelling criticisms, citing perceived notions as their main base of negativity.
We’ve heard it all before.
“It’s just the same as last time.”
“Not enough local businesses, just hucksters from out of town.”
“Not enough action, food or stuff I wanted to see.”
Well, the cynics and skeptics are wrong on all counts.
There is always something new at Showcase, there are always new faces and new products to go along with the repeat visitors and those repeat visitors were there again because they enjoyed some success before, otherwise, why would they bother?
So it’s never the same, although there is a familiar feel to our local Showcase, it is one of comfort. The volunteers and administrators have done this before. The template works, so there is no need to try to reinvent this particular wheel. It will roll as required.
And the entire concept of Showcase is to not only invite local businesses and organizations to strut their stuff, but also welcome new products, faces and businesses into the mix. Local businesses already have a showcase in the city, their storefronts and sales staffs. They set up at Showcase as a complementary extension of what they are already doing. And, if they don’t, we should not be criticizing them. They are already filling their local obligations by being employers, taxpayers and community contributors. An appearance at Showcase is not a requirement, it’s an add-on to their community commitment, if they can do it.
Many of those who set up shop at Showcase have reported successful sales, and more importantly, have established new contacts and potential future sales.
Some companies have set up at Showcase and determined after a few visits that the Estevan area is a pretty good place to make a more permanent commitment. They can recognize a good market when they see it, even during a downturn in the economy and resource sectors.
Businesses and shoppers make a connection that probably wouldn’t happen without Showcase and other gatherings like it.
And finally, Showcase, the Estevan Business Expo, is a great place for our community to come together in comfort and within a welcoming surrounding.
We have the opportunity to mix and mingle with no pressure while supporting a worthwhile cause.
Local service clubs benefit while providing a service.
A total of 92 businesses or agencies had the opportunity to show off what they have.
People from southeast Saskatchewan get to meet one another, socialize and compare notes.
Business to business contacts are made that often lead to new sources for products and services and perhaps even partnerships, expansions or improved outreaches into fresh territories.
Showcase is a wonderful opportunity for professionals and local citizens to get to know one another in a relaxed atmosphere.
That’s why we feel the Estevan Showcase Business Expo deserves a spot on the local calendar and a “must attend” mark for local citizens on an annual basis. One thing we know for certain. If it wasn’t there, our community would definitely miss it and its extended business influences.
