Artisan Fermenters and Distillers Business Conference and Tradeshow
- strengthen (a place) with defensive works so as to protect it against attack.
- strengthen or invigorate (someone) mentally or physically.
- strengthen (a drink) with alcohol.
- strengthen (a place) with defensive works so as to protect it against attack.
- strengthen or invigorate (someone) mentally or physically.
- strengthen (a drink) with alcohol.
- strengthen (a place) with defensive works so as to protect it against attack.
- strengthen or invigorate (someone) mentally or physically.
- strengthen (a drink) with alcohol.
Penticton, BC: for Immediate release August 19, 2024:
The Fortify Conference organizers regret to announce the cancellation of this year’s Fortify
Conference & Tradeshow, originally scheduled for November 13, 2024, at the Penticton Lakeside.
This decision was made after careful consideration due to the insufficient sponsorship and funding
commitments required to deliver the quality event we’ve provided to the beverage alcohol sector
for over six years.
The Fortify Conference, first held in 2018 by the Business Alliance for Artisan Fermenters and
Distillers, addressed the need for many small businesses to strengthen the effectiveness of their
wineries, cideries, breweries, and distilleries. Fortify gave businesses from these sectors unique
strategies and resources to grow, develop, and adapt to a quickly changing environment.
In the six years since its inception, the conference has hosted over 150 speakers and delivered
informative seminars, panel discussions, and innovative lightning talks about topics ranging from
marketing and sales to human resources to finance and regulations. It was also integral to
networking, allowing over 1000 delegates to connect with other decision-makers in the industry at
the Conference and with popular pre- and post-conference events.
“Carolyn and I are pleased that we have provided the space to focus on sharpening how they run
their businesses, from a sales and financial perspective and how to build healthy work
environments and cultures. We believe industry conversations have been enhanced due to what
we created with Fortify. We are forever grateful for all the assistance and support we have received
over the years. We are deeply disappointed that the sponsorship for the event to continue isn’t
there, particularly as these sectors face continuing challenges,” says Sandra Oldfield, co-founder
of the Alliance and Fortify.
The Business Alliance for Artisan Fermenters and Distillers team extends its gratitude to all past
sponsors, attendees, exhibitors, and volunteers who supported us over the years. With your
support, we truly accomplished our mission of bringing people in the alcohol beverage sector
together and providing much-needed support for their businesses.
The team is committed to exploring opportunities for the conference in the upcoming years. We will
post updates on future events and initiatives on our website and social media channels.
For additional information, please contact Conference Coordinators:
Sandra Oldfield
s.oldfield@elysianprojects.com
Carolyn MacLaren