The Canadian auction and appraisal industry is a major component of the nation’s cultural fabric. From art, antiques and furniture to musical instruments and sports collectibles, a wide range of items find their way to the auction block each year.

According to a report published by PriceWaterhouseCoopers, Canadian auction and appraisal revenues grew at an annual rate of 5% between 2024 and 2025. However, the report also indicated that auction volumes declined, as did prices per unit of sale, which may be an indicator of a softer auction market overall. Find out waddingtons.ca

For the most part, auction market prices remain higher than retail values but this trend is slowing down as the year progresses. For the three months ending June 30, 2024, sales of large earthmoving equipment were down by approximately 7% and medium earthmoving equipment was down 16%.

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Auctions are a significant economic driver in Canada and provide employment for thousands of people, particularly in rural and northern communities. In addition, auctioneers and their staff are important contributors to the community, sharing knowledge of their specialty with local residents through their public outreach efforts.

In a city with an inexhaustible amount of history, Ron McLean has established himself as an institution in the Canadian auction business. Elegantly silk-hatted, spattered and cravatted, McLean was one of Toronto’s most colourful Victorians keeping company with the likes of Ned Hanlan, Canada’s first international sports hero and world-class rowing champion, and Goldwin Smith, author and historian.