FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
BEMA Reinvests in Members, Holds 2027 Membership Dues Steady
IBIE proceeds help BEMA respond to a challenging business environment while strengthening member value.
OVERLAND PARK, Kan. — [10/15/2026] — As companies across the baking industry navigate rising costs, trade uncertainty and continued pressure on business investment, BEMA is taking a different approach to its own rising expenses: 2027 membership dues will remain unchanged at $4,250.
The decision reflects both what BEMA has been hearing from its members and its commitment to reinvest proceeds from the International Baking Industry Exposition (IBIE), which BEMA co-owns with the American Bakers Association, back into the baking industry.
"For years, we've talked about the fact that proceeds from IBIE are reinvested into the industry," said Kerwin Brown, President & CEO of BEMA. "Holding dues steady is a very tangible example of what that means. The cost of delivering nearly everything BEMA provides continues to rise, but rather than simply passing those increases along to our members, we are choosing to reinvest in them."
The decision comes as BEMA has placed an increased emphasis on listening directly to members about the issues affecting their businesses and the resources they need most from their association.
Those conversations are helping BEMA sharpen its focus on member value, including timely industry intelligence and education, stronger connections between bakers and suppliers, opportunities for peer-to-peer engagement, and more ways for employees throughout member companies to participate in the BEMA community.
"Listening only matters if you do something with what you hear," said Mark Podl, current BEMA Chairman. "Our members are telling us that this is a challenging market. At the same time, they're helping us better understand where BEMA can be most valuable to their businesses. Holding dues steady while continuing to strengthen what membership delivers is one way we can respond to both."
BEMA membership also provides significant financial benefits to participating companies, including member pricing for programs and events and eligibility for BEMA member exhibitor benefits associated with IBIE.
In 2027, BEMA will also introduce a new Affiliate Membership Program, creating a more accessible pathway for subsidiary and affiliated brands within member organizations to become part of the BEMA community and extend engagement across their businesses.
The 2027 membership renewal period begins October 19th.
"This isn't about doing the same things for the same price," Brown added. "It's about listening, making thoughtful choices and putting our resources behind the things our members tell us matter most. That's what reinvestment should look like."
About BEMA
Founded in 1918, BEMA connects, educates and provides resources for the baking and food industries, serving as a trusted community for equipment manufacturers, suppliers and industry partners. Through industry programs, education, networking, research and leadership opportunities, BEMA works to strengthen its members and advance the baking industry.
Media Contact:
Emily Bowers
Executive Vice President
BEMA
ebowers@bema.org
913-338-3800
www.bema.org
