September 25, 2025 — The American Bakers Association (ABA), as a proud co-owner of the International Baking Industry Exposition (IBIE), was honored to welcome the global baking community to the largest event in the Western Hemisphere dedicated to the industry. Co-owned by ABA and BEMA and sponsored by the Retail Bakers of America (RBA), this year’s event brought together more than 1,000 exhibiting companies from across the globe. Notably, the number of baking companies represented rose 5% compared to pre-pandemic levels. This year marked a historic milestone, with IBIE hosting the largest show floor in its history at nearly 450,000 square feet. Participants represented 96 countries, with approximately 30% coming from international markets, showing how IBIE is fueling the next generation of bakers, promoting economic growth, and advancing the future of baking.
ABA was committed to ensuring members gained the most from this premier industry gathering. IBIEducate, now included with every registration, offered attendees access to the largest educational program in IBIE’s history. With more than 250 sessions and demos designed to provide training for every role and experience level, participants engaged with 11 ABA-sponsored sessions that addressed the most pressing challenges and opportunities shaping the future of commercial baking. From consumer trends and workforce solutions to biotechnology and regulatory updates, educational programming equipped attendees with insights to prepare their businesses for long-term success.
NextGenBaker hosted its highly anticipated Global Leadership Forum, a can’t miss event that brings together rising executive leaders, the ABA Board of Directors, and ABA membership for an evening of connection, inspiration, and insight. The event opened with a reception, providing attendees with the chance to build and strengthen relationships with peers and industry leaders. Followed by a thought-provoking panel discussion featuring senior executives from Mausac Foods, Bridor North America, Ardent Mills, and Crown Bakeries, who shared perspectives on leadership, strategies for organizational excellence, and the trends shaping the future of the baking industry.
ABA and RBA were honored to welcome Major General James W. Lukeman (Ret.), President and CEO of the Marine Corps Heritage Foundation, to IBIE for a special program recognizing the baking industry’s support of the upcoming 250th Marine Corps Birthday Celebrations. He delivered a speech honoring the ABA and RBA members who are donating cakes across the country for the state events.
For the first time, IBIE attendees experienced the Baking Works booth, a dedicated space focused on building the next generation of baking talent by inspiring talent pools to explore careers in commercial baking. In collaboration with the CAPS Network, the booth not only showcased pathways for students but also educated industry leaders on how they can leverage Baking Works and CAPS as resources to attract, connect with, and retain top talent. By positioning commercial baking as a purpose-driven career path built on innovation, opportunity, and community impact, Baking Works equips employers with best practices and practical tools to strengthen their workforce.
“I couldn’t be prouder of how IBIE came together this year,” said Eric Dell, ABA President and CEO. “From the world-class education sessions to the innovations on the show floor, it was clear that IBIE continues to be the premier forum for shaping the future of the baking industry. The energy from participants, whether first-time attendees or long-time leaders, was inspiring, and the global connections made will have a lasting impact on commercial baking. The show also reinforced ABA’s role in providing the resources, advocacy, and talent development our members need to thrive. IBIE 2025 truly showcased the strength, creativity, and resilience of our industry.”
“IBIE truly is my Super Bowl and seeing it all come to life was nothing short of extraordinary,” Samantha Moore, Senior Director of Events and Programming at ABA. “After years of planning, to watch over 1,000 exhibitors fill the halls with energy, ideas, and gratitude was incredibly rewarding. The show floor buzzed with innovation, our members reconnecting in the ABA BEMA booth and the sense of community across every segment of the baking industry was powerful. I am so proud of what we created together with our IBIE Committee and staff partners, and it reaffirmed just how essential IBIE is for the global baking industry.”
About the American Bakers Association
The American Bakers Association (ABA) is the largest, most established, and diverse trade association for the commercial baking industry in the United States. ABA’s community includes more than 375 member companies representing over 1,200 commercial baking facilities and the extensive industry supply chain.
Since 1897, ABA has served as the voice of the baking industry, offering compelling advocacy, insightful thought leadership, and comprehensive research on industry trends. ABA members also benefit from extensive business services including premier networking events, impactful knowledge sharing, and effective workforce development programs and training resources. ABA is committed to enhancing its mission by growing the category and promoting the industry as the destination workplace.
