A wealth of new innovations and strategies to help producers and their industry transition to the future will take the spotlight Oct. 10-11 at the second annual Alberta Livestock Expo in Lethbridge.

The newly expanded Expo builds on a successful inaugural event by adding an additional day to the format along with broadened program features and expanded floor space for the popular exhibitor booth spaces.

“The livestock industry has entered an exciting time of evolution, with a number of important new trends, innovations and demands shaping the future,” says Chris Tokaruk of TTT Stock Company, founding sponsor of the Expo. “With the tremendous support and participation of our many exhibitors from across all facets of the industry, combined with projected outstanding attendance, we are anticipating a very successful forum for sharing knowledge and solutions to help drive the industry forward.”

Sharing knowledge, driving progress

With expanded floor space for an additional 22 exhibitors, the Expo, hosted at Exhibition Park (South Pavilion) will feature over 70 exhibitors featuring the latest in tools, technology and tactics to optimize all types of livestock operations, including swine, poultry, beef, dairy and more. There is a strong emphasis on innovations with practical, hands-on value for producers, as well as ones that help operations align with key trends in areas such as management, housing, welfare, genetics, feed and nutrition, reduced antimicrobial use and more.

“The opportunity to see many of the latest innovations in one place will be second-to-none,” says Tokaruk. “The Expo is also designed to provide a very enjoyable event for socializing and networking with fellow producers and industry colleagues, including potential customers and prospects.”

Broadened format, networking opportunities

With a second day added, there will be more flexibility for more people to participate, he says. “This will make it easier for everyone on the farm to attend. With one day shows, inevitably at least one person needs to stay home to take care of the animals. Now half the employees can come one day and the other half the next day – no one has to miss out.”

New competitions: beef rib BBQ and pork quality

The expanded format will also feature the addition of a new beef rib BBQ competition, on Wednesday, Oct. 10., and a new pork quality competition, on Thursday, Oct. 11. Those interested in participating in these competitions can contact event manager Lisa Doyle. “We encourage entries in both of these competitions to see who will earn bragging rights for the best pork quality and the best beef ribs in Alberta. Both competitions should be a lot of fun.”

Exhibitor booth spaces have been selling quickly, reports Doyle. “At this time, we’re almost 90 percent sold out with 100 booths sold. We’re projecting being sold out this year. There are still 12 booth spaces available in one, two, and three space blocks – we encourage those interested to reserve these quickly as they won’t be available for long.”

Sponsors key to a successful event

A strong roster of core sponsors is in place and sponsorship opportunitiescontinue to be available, she says. Tickets are available both in advance or at the event gate, with hours for both days running from 9 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.

TTT Stock Company Ltd. is an official distributor for Hypor Inc., a Hendrix Genetics company. Both TTT Stock Company and Hypor are lead (Diamond Level) sponsors of the Expo. Full sponsor listing as well as complete event information including on tickets and booth space registration is available at www.albertalivestockexpo.com.