When a signature industry event takes place only once every three years, it’s important to get as much out of it as possible.
That’s the case with IBIE, the International Baking Industry Exposition, which is the largest grain-based event in the Western Hemisphere, bringing together all segments of the baking sector’s supply chain. IBIE is set for September 18 to 21 in Las Vegas, with an additional full day of education on September 17.
This year’s IBIE will be the most important one in decades because bakers will find solutions to drive success in the post-pandemic world.
“ABA provides world class service to ensure its members maximize their time and investment in IBIE. We are pushing exhibitors to bring their best innovations, their best ideas and insights, and any solutions that help the industry address its most pressing challenges to achieve success,” said Robb MacKie, ABA’s President and CEO. “Our team will be on hand to guide members through the show experience and find those innovative solutions.”
Facts about IBIE
- IBIE is owned by American Bakers Association (ABA) and the Bakery Equipment Manufacturers and Allieds (BEMA) — and is supported by the Retail Bakers of America (RBA).
- IBIE drew some 22,000 baking professionals in its last edition in 2019.
- One of the most exciting new elements will be the addition of a new West Hall at the Las Vegas Convention Center, in addition to the continued use of the North Hall.
Why ABA Members Attend
Baking industry attendees are drawn to IBIE’s large number of supplier exhibits showcasing the latest products and services; education programs; networking opportunities; awards and competitions.
“One of the key reasons ABA Members attend IBIE is to streamline the research and vetting process by finding everything from equipment to ingredients all in one place,” said Samantha Moore, ABA’s Senior Director, Meetings and Education.
ABA Members often bring large teams to IBIE to spread industry knowledge across their companies, said Jennifer Colfelt, ABA’s Vice President, Operations and Membership.
“It’s amazing for teams to see so many things in one place, from robotics to ingredients displays to cooking on the show floor,” she explained.
Discounts and Exhibit Support
ABA Members receive a percentage off their attendee registration fees compared to the non-member rate. ABA Allied Member exhibitors get exclusive discounted rates on booth space and are automatically included in the first rounds for space selection, ahead of non-members. ABA is providing hands-on support for its supplier members to make their exhibitor experiences as valuable as possible. ABA Member exhibitors also receive exclusive recognition in the event app to drive baker customers to their resources.
Navigation Help
ABA helps Members navigate the sprawling IBIE event to gain the most value. The ABA/BEMA booth is a great place for Members to talk to ABA staff, pick up water and snacks, find private meeting space, meet ABA peers and rest for a bit.
Members can also choose to walk the IBIE show with one of ABA’s technical advisors, who can point the way to suppliers that are especially relevant for specific equipment or other needs.
Education
ABA Members benefit from the association’s education sessions at IBIE. ABA is a key partner in the onsite IBIEducate program, contributing education sessions tailored to the needs of ABA Members.
ABA’s sessions in the last IBIE, for example, covered key baking industry topics including energy efficiency improvement and cost savings, innovation strategies, and trends in nutrition labeling.
ABA will also present a one-day cookie and cracker intensive education session at IBIE on September 17, which will be especially useful for production employees in the cookie/cracker production space.
Leadership Engagement
IBIE is a key forum for engaging the next generation of baking industry leadership. ABA will present its NextGenBaker Leadership Forum at IBIE on September 20, held as an exclusive Member-only event. The event will include networking and a panel of industry leaders from the baking and supplying membership focusing on industry trends.
ABA's NextGenBaker professional development program is dedicated to developing the industry's rising leaders. Baking and supplier company executives connect and learn, growing together in the program's core goals of professional development, public policy engagement, relationship building, and industry trends education.
Planning Your IBIE Experience
ABA is ready to help facilitate and enhance your IBIE experience. For more information, check out the dedicated part of ABA’s website. Additional information and registration information are available on the IBIE website.