The baking industry has gathered in Orlando for the American Bakers Association’s (ABA) annual Convention, which offers a broad agenda that spotlights critical issues — from workforce to category growth.
The event runs from March 23 to 26 and features education, thought leadership and networking opportunities. With over 55 leading baking companies and more than 550 attendees, this year’s Convention will be the premier forum for commercial baking executives to expand their networks, gain industry insights, and propel the industry forward.
“We have been looking forward to welcoming the industry to this year’s Convention and spotlighting so many important issues for our members,” said Eric Dell, ABA’s President and CEO. “There is much to discuss in areas such as government policy, category growth opportunities, and workforce strategies — just to name a few topics.”
Among the program’s highlights:
- A fireside chat on key baking industry priorities will feature ABA’s Dell, the association’s chair Bill Quigg and a panel of industry CEOs. The discussion will highlight the state of the industry, including a deep dive discussion on current and near-term trends across multiple baking categories.
- Key legislative and regulatory topics will be addressed in presentations focused on both federal and state policy issues. Speakers will discuss subjects ranging from nutrition to workforce.
- Innovative leadership strategies will take the spotlight in sessions about how the Disney Institute inspires teams and how “connectional intelligence” can be used to transform businesses.
- Two facilitated Executive Roundtables will enable attendees to engage with their peers on strategies to enhance succession planning and to market an organization’s mission and vision.
- Consumer trends will be front and center in a presentation on ABA’s Bakery Playbooks that assist in accelerating business growth.
- Bakery trends in Europe will be illuminated to highlight innovation and explore the potential for North American bakeries to succeed in the European market.
- Attendees will learn how businesses can successfully implement AI in their facilities to enhance production and workforce efforts.
- The Convention will recognize excellence through industry awards and offer a range of attendee networking opportunities that feature unique social activities and community give-back opportunities.
Bill Quigg, ABA Chair and President and CEO of Richmond Baking said the Convention is an ideal forum for driving industry engagement. “This is a terrific opportunity to reconnect with industry peers, learn from each other, and tap into the expertise of the ABA team. I’m looking forward to seeing longtime friends and welcoming the many new attendees to our ABA community and this exceptional event."
