The baking industry will gather in Colorado Springs for the American Bakers Association’s (ABA) 2026 Convention, taking place April 19–23. The event arrives at a pivotal moment for commercial baking manufacturers navigating a dynamic regulatory and economic environment, from trade volatility and tariff pressures to rapidly evolving federal and state nutrition policies.
The Convention will provide a critical forum for industry leaders to align, strategize, and shape the future of baking manufacturing. This year’s Convention will serve as the premier gathering for commercial baking executives to expand their networks, gain industry insights, and propel the industry forward.
ABA is proud to share that Governor Jared Polis issued a proclamation welcoming the baking manufacturing community to Colorado and recognizing the industry's contributions to the state economy during the 2026 ABA Convention. The industry produces a $6.7 billion total economic impact in Colorado and directly supports an estimated 12,118 jobs, providing nearly $600 million in wages.
“From nutrition policy and trade to AI and evolving consumer trends, the issues facing our industry are moving quickly,” said Eric Dell, ABA’s President and CEO. “The Convention gives our members the insights and connections they need to stay ahead of those changes.”
Among the program’s highlights:
- The Convention opens with an address from ABA Chair Bill Quigg and ABA President and CEO Eric Dell who will set the tone with a forward-looking update centered on resilience, growth, and strategic leadership.
- An executive panel on sharing the future of baking will explore how shifting consumer behaviors, environmental pressures, and policy uncertainty are influencing operational decisions and long-term investment.
- The NextGenBaker Brunch will feature a leadership session focused on empowering executives to act like owners, reinvent for the customer, and foster cultures that thrive under constant change.
- Emerging technology will also take center stage with a keynote Andy Busch examining how Generative AI and Agentic AI, combined with trusted networks, can help businesses anticipate change, enhance competitiveness, and seize opportunities in an increasingly complex global market.
- Another keynote will feature Jon McNeill, former President of Tesla, former COO of Lyft, and CEO of DVx Ventures, who will deliver a practical masterclass on where AI truly creates value for manufacturers navigating transformation.
- Consumer trends will be front and center in a presentation highlighting new ABA research examining how GLP-1 users are shopping, including shifts in purchasing behavior, and food choices.
- Anne-Marie Roerink will also unveil the latest consumer trend insights from ABA’s Bakery Playbook research, sharing shoppers’ buying habits and marketplace trends to help the baking industry craft experiences that resonate with consumers.
- Colonel Dan Rooney, fighter pilot, PGA professional, and founder of Folds of Honor, will deliver a keynote built around the aviation concept CAVU — “Ceiling and Visibility Unlimited.” Rooney will share a practical framework for navigating change and uncertainty with clarity and conviction.
- Key legislative and regulatory topics will be addressed in presentations focused on both federal and state policy issues, with speakers discussing subjects ranging from nutrition policy to workforce challenges.
- Katherine Tai, United States Trade Representative (2021 to 2025) will highlight key policy developments and discuss what the baking industry can expect as trade flows and regulatory frameworks evolve across North America.
- Another session, “Policy Deep Dive: The New Nutrition Agenda — Federal Policy, Industry Impact, and Consumer Response,” will examine the rapidly shifting federal nutrition policy landscape. Panelists will discuss emerging priorities from the Administration, what they signal for FDA and USDA policy directions, and how bakers can stay ahead of potential regulatory and consumer shifts.
- The Convention will recognize excellence across the industry through awards including Champions for a Better Tomorrow and Safety Awards, while also offering a range of networking opportunities featuring unique social activities and community give-back events.
Bill Quigg, ABA Chair and President and CEO of Richmond Baking said, “The ABA Convention brings together leaders who are shaping the future of baking. It’s an opportunity to step back from day-to-day operations, gain new perspectives, and strengthen the relationships that drive our industry’s success. Each year, the Convention sparks new ideas, strengthens partnerships, and helps leaders think differently about the opportunities ahead.”
