Doug Stephens to Headline the MWC 2026 Breakfast Conference 

The countdown to Montréal Wood Convention 2026 is officially on!

We are thrilled to announce that Doug Stephensone of the world’s leading voices on business transformation and competitive advantage, conférencier de marque du petit-déjeuner-conférence du jeudi 16 avril.

Renowned for his sharp insights on disruption, innovation, and the future of business, Doug Stephens will challenge industry leaders to rethink how competitive advantage is created and sustained in a rapidly changing global marketplace. His keynote promises to be both thought-provoking and highly relevant for decision makers across the wood industry.

Act Fast to Get Your Spot at the MWC 
MWC 2026 is capped at 1,200 participants, and with only weeks to go, availability is becoming limited. If you’re planning to attend, now is the time to secure your place before it’s too late.

Don’t miss this opportunity to be part of the biggest wood industry meeting in Canada with leaders from across North America!

Sign up now by clicking on the button at the top right of your screen!

Moving Forward Together for the Future of the Wood Industry

Dear participants and partners of the Montréal Wood Convention,

As the year draws to a close, we would like to take a moment to sincerely thank you. Your continued engagement, trust, and participation make the Montréal Wood Convention (MWC) a key gathering for our industry.

2025 has not been an easy one. Economic conditions remain challenging for the lumber sector, putting unprecedented pressures on the market. Yet in times of uncertainty, one thing remains clear: our industry has always demonstrated resilience and innovation.

It is precisely in this context that the MWC plays its role. More than a convention, the MWC is a place to connect, exchange ideas, and engage in strategic reflection. It is where decision-makers, producers, manufacturers, suppliers, and partners come together to better understand current challenges, find practical solutions, and collectively identify the levers needed to unlock the market and move forward with confidence.

The MWC is for everyone. Regardless of the size of your organization or your role within the value chain, you will find an engaged community and relevant content designed to help you move forward. Montréal is an open, welcoming, and dynamic city which has long been a natural meeting place for the wood industry, a city where ideas flow, relationships are built, and participants leave with a clearer vision of the future.

Registration for the MWC remains open, and we would be delighted to welcome you to Montréal. Please note that exhibitor booths are currently on a waiting list, reflecting the strong level of interest from across the industry.

Thank you for being part of this community. During this holiday season, we extend our warmest wishes to you and your loved ones for health, success, and peace. We also wish you a happy and prosperous 2026, filled with new opportunities and renewed momentum for our industry. We look forward to seeing you in Montréal as we shape the next chapter of our industry—together.

On behalf of the entire Montréal Wood Convention team,

Sven Gustavsson Event Director and Christian Gilbert Chair, Organizing Committee and Sales Director at J.D Irving

Chris Hadfield Is Officially the Keynote Speaker!

The Montréal Wood Convention is thrilled to announce that Colonel Chris Hadfield will be the Keynote Speaker at the Luncheon on Wednesday, April 15, 2026.

Mr. Hadfield is an astronaut, business leader, hi-tech entrepreneur, five-time bestselling author, and a globally sought-after speaker on leadership, change, and navigating complexity. Best known as the former Commander of the International Space Station, he has led teams under the most demanding conditions imaginable.

In the video message included, Colonel Hadfield shares a surprising insight: wood has even been used in parts of spaceships. As he reminds us, innovation often comes from unexpected places — and the wood industry is no exception. His presence at MWC 2026 promises to bring a rare blend of inspiration, curiosity, and forward-thinking perspective.

Over more than three decades with the military, NASA, and the Canadian Space Agency, Chris Hadfield served as NASA’s Director of Operations in Russia, flew three space missions, helped build two space stations, performed spacewalks, and crewed both the Shuttle and Soyuz. His accomplishments earned him the NASA Exceptional Service Medal, the Meritorious Service Cross (twice), and the Order of Canada.

Today, he advises leading space and tech companies such as SpaceX and Virgin Galactic and teaches as an adjunct professor at the University of Waterloo. He also chairs the Open Lunar Foundation, supports King Charles III’s Sustainable Markets Initiative, and co-founded CDL’s Space Stream, which has generated over $1.6B in new equity value. A five-time bestselling author and musician, his album Space Sessions became the first ever recorded in space.

Secure your spot and don’t miss this once in a lifetime chance to meet Chris Hadfield while learning about his journey filled with science and creativity while also imagining what the future might look like.

Register now and take advantage of the Early Bird rate availability until February 13, 2026!

We look forward to seeing you at the Montréal Wood Convention 2026!

Benjamin Tal Returns for the Industry Seminar on Economy and Markets

The latest Industry Seminars on Economy and Markets were a resounding success, thanks to Benjamin Tal's consecutive participation. He's almost part of the team!

Mr. Benjamin Tal, Managing Director and Deputy Chief Economist at CIBC Capital Markets Inc. will return once again to the seminar with his fresh view on the economy and its impact on the construction sector in North America.

Renowned for his deep expertise in economic trends, Mr. Tal will deliver a compelling and insightful session to help you navigate what’s ahead. Plus, he’ll be available to answer your questions live during the seminar.

Register now! Secure your spot for the full event, from April 14 to 16, 2026, by clicking the button below.

Stay at the Fairmont Queen Elizabeth – Your home for the MWC 2026

Make the most of your experience by staying at the official convention venue: the Fairmont Queen Elizabeth in Montréal.

Located in downtown Montréal, this iconic hotel puts you close to all the city’s attractions while offering unique services.

As an MWC 2026 participant, you can enjoy a special rate starting at CAD 319 per night (plus taxes). With its seamless convenience and unparalleled comfort, the Queen Elizabeth is the ideal choice to elevate your experience and ensure a productive convention by being onsite where all the action happens!

Book your room today! 

Availability is limited, so don’t wait and Click here to book your room.

*Participants have reported being approached with offers for discounted hotel rooms. Please be aware that the organizers have never authorized such companies and never will. Any such solicitations are fraudulent—do not engage or share personal information.

Register for MWC 2026!

It’s Official: Registration for the Montréal Wood Convention 2026 is Now Open!

We look forward to welcoming you next spring at the Fairmont Queen Elizabeth Hotel in Montréal, from April 14 to 16, 2026.

This year’s event will feature a dynamic trade show, industry-focused presentations, and plenty of networking opportunities. With the return of our official mobile app, you’ll be able to connect with other participants ahead of time, schedule meetings, follow live presentations from anywhere, ask questions, and explore exhibitor profiles at your fingertips.

Exhibitors

This year, booth allocation has been updated. Of the 110 booths available, 65 are reserved exclusively for wood product producers, distributors (Canadian and international), and sponsors. The remaining 45 are open to other exhibitor categories. Adjustments may be made between categories if needed.

Please note: Lumber producers with an annual production of 25 million board feet or more are required to have a booth at the Trade Show. Participation without a booth is not permitted for these producers.

Complete your exhibitor registration by clicking on ''Register to Exhibit''.

Reminders: Three booth sizes are available—6x8 (booths 58–67), 8x8 (white), and 8x10 (green). Red-marked booths are unavailable. All booths are offered at the same price and are allocated on a first-come, first-served basis.

You’ll be able to select your booth once payment is completed. The confirmation email will include the link to the floor plan.

Questions about exhibitor registration? Contact us at info@montrealwoodconvention.com

Don’t wait too long—secure the best booth locations today!

Participants

If you’re joining us without exhibiting, you can register as a participant. (Exhibitors must register through the exhibitor process.)

Take advantage of our Early-Bird rate by registering before February 13, 2026.

Complete your participant registration by clicking on ''Register to Attend''.

See you in Montréal!

The MWC is Ready for You!

The Montréal Wood Convention 2025 is just a couple of days away, and we’re excited to welcome you!

Despite the ongoing lockout at The Queen Elizabeth Hotel, we’ve ensured minimal impact on your experience. Our event is meticulously planned to deliver excellence, as always.

To help your trip run smoothly, here’s what you need to know:

For more information, visit our website or reach out at info@montrealwoodconvention.com

Where to Eat In Montréal?

Ferreira (1446 Peel Street) $$$

One of Montreal’s finest Portuguese restaurants, the atmosphere here is modern and inviting.

https://ferreiracafe.com/

The Keg $$

Classic steak and seafood dishes are the mainstays of this casual yet quality restaurant.

https://thekeg.com/fr/restaurants/place-ville-marie?gad_source=1&gclid=Cj0KCQjw1um-BhDtARIsABjU5x5784tHf3tHsNH1Tkay4AHpSxxZqrRzuk_k9JhX7YxVCan7vO8Gp4AaAs5VEALw_wcB

Bar George (1440, rue Drummond) $$

Located in an old manor of the 1900s, this resto-bar has a lavish and chic Victorian décor. We love the ambiance and their English and Scottish inspired menu.

https://www.bargeorge.ca/

Fiorellino (470 rue De la Gauchetière Ouest) $$

Find homemade pasta and delicious thin crust pizza in this inviting space.

https://fiorellino.ca/centre-ville.html

Les Enfants Terrible (3 Place Ville-Marie) $$

A nice casual French bistro in the heart of downtown.

https://www.jesuisunenfantterrible.com/

Lucille’s (1065 Drummond St) $$

A great spot downtown for large groups. Enjoy steak and seafood in this business casual restaurant located nearby the NHL’s Bell Center.

https://canadiens.lucillesoyster.com/

Reuben’s (1116, rue Ste Catherine) $

The best place downtown to enjoy a Montreal famous smoke meat sandwich.

http://reubensdeli.com/

Marche Time Out $

Under one roof, find a number of Delicious food options at this upscale food hall in Montreals Eaton Centre.

https://www.timeout.com/fr/time-out-market-montreal

Ye Olde Orchard Pub and Grill (1189 Rue de la Montagne) $

With over 3200 square feet of ground floor space to accommodate 150 patrons, it is definitely the top spot to be in the heart of downtown Montréal.

https://www.yeoldeorchard.com/

Hurley's Irish Pub (1225 Crescent St) $

A cozy local pub with great beer, food and live music.

https://www.hurleysirishpub.com/

McKibbin’s (1426 Bishop St) $

A classic Irish pub that also serves food and a nice pint of Guinness.

https://www.mckibbinsirishpub.com

3 Brasseurs McGill (732 Saint-Catherine St W) $

Les 3 Brasseurs microbrewery offer a warm atmosphere that can accommodate both large and small groups.

https://www.3brasseurs.ca/

La Cage (1212 avenue des Canadiens de Montréal) $

A perfect place to watch sports and have food and drink. This is the perfect place to cheer on your favourite team.

https://www.cage.ca/restaurants/centre-bell

Important Message for Our Participants

We would like to inform you that the employees of the Fairmont The Queen Elizabeth are currently on lockout. The management team is working closely with negotiators to resolve the labour dispute. However, despite all efforts, it is possible that this situation will persist during the Montréal Wood Convention. 

The organizing committee has deemed it essential to proceed with the event despite the challenges this situation may bring.

Impact on Participant’s Activities 

There will be no changes to the 2025 Program. The current situation would not affect any program items. Rooms availabilities are the same and we are dedicated to delivering an event that will meet your expectations. However, this unfortunate situation might create some circumstances where hotel staff cannot answer your needs right away or provide you with the same level of care that you were used to.

Impact on Hotel Services  

The hotel’s restaurants, café, bar, and artisan market will be closed for the duration of your stay. For the bar, we are currently working on an alternative location, stay tuned! Also, a list of the nearby best restaurants and coffee places will be made available to you so you can enjoy Montreal’s finest.

If you have booked a room, please note that some services will be affected: there will be no housekeeping or room service during your stay. If you need fresh towels, you will need to go to the front desk.

If you haven't found the answers to your questions on the website, please contact us at info@montrealwoodconvention.com.  

Enjoy the convention!  

Jon Montgomery Is Our Keynote Speaker

We are thrilled to announce that Jon Montgomery, Olympic gold medallist and celebrated host of The Amazing Race Canada, will be the keynote speaker at the Luncheon during the Montréal Wood Convention 2025. Mark your calendar for April 9th!

Jon captured the hearts of millions at the 2010 Vancouver Winter Olympics, where he clinched gold in the skeleton and showcased his determination, perseverance, and signature sense of humour. Today, as the charismatic host of The Amazing Race Canada, Jon continues to inspire and entertain audiences across the country.

At the luncheon, Jon will share his unique story about being curious, living outside his comfort zone, trying new things, and accepting the challenges that presented themselves which enabled him to find his passion and his opportunity to realize his dreams. Drawing on his experiences, he’ll offer powerful insights on goal setting, resilience, and how to embrace challenges with passion and purpose. This is your chance to hear from a world-class athlete and storyteller who embodies the spirit of determination and excellence. Prepare to leave inspired and energized to tackle your own goals.

Be sure to secure your spot and join us for an unforgettable afternoon of insight, inspiration, and networking. Register now by clicking on the button "Register to Attend". The Early Bird rate is still available until February 7th!

We look forward to seeing you at the Montréal Wood Convention 2025!

Benjamin Tal Returns for the Industry Seminar on Economy and Markets

Last year’s Industry Seminar on Economy and Markets was again a resounding success, thanks to the second consecutive participation of Benjamin Tal. This year, we’re going for the hat trick!

Mr. Benjamin Tal, Managing Director and Deputy Chief Economist at CIBC Capital Markets Inc. will return once again to the seminar with his fresh view on the economy and its impact on the construction sector in North America.

Renowned for his deep expertise in economic trends, Mr. Tal will deliver a compelling and insightful session to help you navigate what’s ahead. Plus, he’ll be available to answer your questions live during the seminar.

Register now! Secure your spot for the full event, from April 8 to 10, 2025, by clicking on the “To Participate” button at the top right of your screen.

Stay at the Fairmont Queen Elizabeth – Your home for the MWC 2025

Make the most of your experience by staying at the official convention venue: the Fairmont Queen Elizabeth in Montréal.

Located in downtown Montréal, this iconic hotel puts you close to all the city’s attractions while offering unique services.

As an MWC 2025 participant, you can enjoy a special rate starting at CAD 309 per night (plus taxes). With its seamless convenience and unparalleled comfort, the Queen Elizabeth is the ideal choice to elevate your experience and ensure a productive convention. de 309 $ CA par nuit (taxes en sus). Avec ses services sans faille et son confort inégalé, le Reine Elizabeth est le choix idéal pour vous assurer d’avoir un Congrès productif.

Book your room today! Availability is limited, so don’t wait. Click the button below to secure your stay.

*Participants told the organizers that they had been solicited for discounted hotel rooms. The organizers have never given mandates to such companies and never will.