BEMA

"Remember the beginning of January when the year spread out before you, empty calendar pages just waiting to be filled? Are you on track to reach those goals or are you wondering where your motivation went?" Emily B., Vice President, Education & Operations, dives into goal theory with action-based steps to help put theory into practice. And most importantly how to celebrate those wins once they are accomplished. Read more: https://lnkd.in/gESRGXg6

?? Exhibiting at IBIE 2025?! Get the most bang for your sponsorship buck by securing a spot in the West Hall Lobby Spectacular. The WHLS is 4,000 sq. ft. of prime advertising and promotional real estate located right inside the entrance of the West Hall. We are here to help you develop your marketing assets! Reach out to Wes Luczak for more information.

Last week, Kerwin Brown, CAE, MBA was able to participate in a panel at the?Taipei International Bakery Show.?He had the opportunity to join five other leaders representing some of the largest baking shows across the globe, including Germany, Italy, Singapore, Taiwan, and Japan. The panel focused on the?key trends, challenges, and unique features?of the shows we represent. It was fascinating to see how many of the issues shaping the baking industry are universal. We explored these common concerns while highlighting how our respective shows are addressing the evolving needs of both exhibitors and attendees. So, what were the key takeaways? ?? Global Challenges are Converging Across regions, labor shortages, employee retention, and rising material costs remain top concerns. According to BEMA’s annual Capital Expenditure Study, these factors continue to dominate bakers’ priorities, with?69% of bakers?expressing concern about labor costs. ?? Consumer Trends are Shaping Product Innovation Globally, we’re seeing a surge in demand for?high-protein, low-carb, and gluten-free options. According to MarketsandMarkets? research, the global gluten-free products market is projected to reach?$11.49 billion by 2029, underscoring that this is not just a passing trend but a growing dietary choice. In the U.S., we’re also witnessing?strong growth in the snacking category—including sweet baked goods, salty snacks, and cookies. Interestingly,?buns and rolls?remain a staple, with research from the American Bakers Association showing that?57% of Americans consume buns and rolls at least once a week. ?? Innovation in Trade Show Experiences is Essential As the largest grain-based trade show in the Western Hemisphere,?International Baking Industry Exposition (IBIE)?continues to lead by example in creating meaningful learning and networking opportunities. In 2025,?IBIEducate?will offer over?250 learning sessions?and International Delegation Program?will provide attendees with special benefits—such as planning assistance, show floor tours, and access to the International Trade Center Lounge. ?? Technology is Enhancing Accessibility and Engagement A major highlight for IBIE is our upcoming?multi-language, user-friendly app?that will offer real-time translation for educational content. This initiative aims to create a more inclusive experience for our international visitors, ensuring that they can fully engage with the wealth of information available during the event. It's incredible how interconnected our industry truly is. While each region has its unique nuances, the core challenges and opportunities we face as leaders of global baking events are remarkably aligned. The continued evolution of trade shows—from introducing innovative technologies to addressing shifting consumer preferences—will be key in ensuring that we meet the needs of our industry for years to come.

Have you taken a look at BEMA Intel quarterly data? Q4 data has just been released. Take a moment to dive into topline trends, industry influences, and the BEMA Member Impulse Survey, which is a direct representation of how equipment manufacturers' are tackling challenges and what they are feeling positively about. Dive into the report: https://www.bema.org/intel

Drumroll please...introducing Convention 2025's Keynote Speaker, Chris Clews! Chris Clews is a former corporate marketing leader with over 20 years of experience, who transitioned into a keynote speaker and author. He combines his expertise in '80s pop culture, business, and life lessons to offer insights into workplace and personal development. Learn more: https://lnkd.in/g-e-yi_3

?? IBIE 2025 is just around the corner! Are you ready to maximize your brand's impact? According to the Center for Exhibition Industry Research (CEIR), trade show booth efficiency increases by 104% with sponsorship. Consider purchasing the Registration Confirmation Email sponsorship. This timely, cost-effective strategy gets your promotional message in front of all attendees. Your advertisement will be embedded in the confirmation email that is sent to every single registrant. Learn more by contacting BEMA's Membership Manager, Wes Luczak!

Did you miss it?! Our 2025-26 Baking Industry Forum members have been announced. This small group of bakers and suppliers are ready to collaborate and tackle some of the top issues facing our industry today. Learn more from Commercial Baking.

Craig Souser and Josh Sosland shared their takes on the recently released Q4 BEMA Intel data with Charlotte Atchley. Equipment manufacturers remain positive despite softening commercial bakery sales. Find out why!

International Baking Industry Exposition (IBIE) 2025 is the premier event for the baking industry, drawing over 20,000 attendees from all segments. With 88% influencing purchasing decisions and 85% attending to see new products, this is your chance to stand out! Catch the eye of every attendee before they even step onto the show floor! Your brand will be front and center on the iPads at registration locations. Work with IBIE to design a frame that wraps around each iPad registration station, ensuring your brand stands out. For more information, reach out to Wes Luczak.

Kelly Peterson, CAE and Emily B. welcomed Kathy Sargent, Bimbo Bakeries USA, and Wendi Ebbing, Bundy Baking Solutions on In The Kitchen! From mentorship to getting involved in the industry, this was a great conversation that you won't want to miss. Watch the latest episode now: https://lnkd.in/g5R6yGD9