FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
BEMA Convention Delivers Strategic Insights, Practical Solutions, and Meaningful Member Value
Overland Park, KS — June 8, 2026 — As the baking industry continues to navigate evolving market demands, workforce challenges, technological advancements, and changing consumer expectations, BEMA's Convention programming is intentionally designed to help members address today's realities while preparing for tomorrow's opportunities.
Built around the association's commitment to member value and guided by the objectives of BEMA's strategic plan, the Convention offers a balanced mix of leadership development, operational excellence, emerging technology, industry collaboration, and future-focused business strategy. Whether attendees represent a commercial bakery, ingredient supplier, equipment manufacturer, or service provider, the program is designed to ensure every participant leaves with actionable insights and practical takeaways they can apply within their organizations.
"Every aspect of Convention programming is developed with one question in mind: How does this create value for our members? By aligning our content with the priorities outlined in BEMA's strategic plan, we're helping members navigate today's business environment while positioning their organizations for future growth and success." Brandon Woods, Board Member, Convention & Programs Committee Leader
This year's program reflects the diverse needs of BEMA's membership by bringing together thought leaders, industry experts, and peer practitioners to address topics that matter most to baking professionals. Sessions explore everything from leadership and organizational culture to artificial intelligence, commercialization, hygienic design, industry standards, and strategic planning for future industry events and investments.
A key strength of the Convention is its ability to connect different perspectives across the baking value chain. By creating opportunities for bakers and suppliers to learn from one another, discuss shared challenges, and identify collaborative solutions, the program supports one of BEMA's core priorities: fostering stronger industry connections that drive innovation and business success.
I always leave Convention with pages of notes and ideas I can take back to my team. The discussions are grounded in real-world experience, and the speakers are willing to share both successes and lessons learned." Sergio Caballero, Board Member, Convention & Programs Committee Leader
Rather than focusing solely on high-level trends, BEMA's Convention emphasizes practical application. Attendees gain real-world examples, lessons learned, and proven strategies from industry peers who are navigating many of the same challenges. The result is a program that delivers immediate value while helping members build the relationships, knowledge, and perspective needed for long-term success.
As BEMA continues to execute its strategic vision, Convention remains one of the association's most important platforms for delivering on its North Star: creating meaningful value for members. Through relevant content, collaborative discussions, and opportunities for professional growth, the event serves as a catalyst for stronger businesses and a stronger baking industry.
Registration for BEMA Convention 2026 is now open. For event details and registration information, visit www.bema.org.
About BEMA Convention 2026
BEMA Convention 2026 is the association's premier annual event, bringing together baking industry leaders, equipment and ingredient suppliers, and strategic partners for education, networking, and collaboration. The Convention features keynote presentations, expert-led sessions, and opportunities to connect with peers while exploring trends, challenges, and innovations shaping the future of the baking industry.
About BEMA
Founded in 1918, BEMA (Bakery Equipment Manufacturers and Allieds), is an international, not-for-profit trade association representing leading bakery and food suppliers. BEMA creates authentic connections that improve its members' businesses and the industries they serve. Its members utilize the value they gain through BEMA networking and educational events to provide their customers with the most effective, innovative solutions in the baking industry.
Media Contact:
Emily Bowers
816.805.9799
ebowers@bema.org
