BEMA Convention 2026
Save The Date: June 25-29
Fairmont Orchid, Waimea, Hawaii
Build Industry Connections
This June, head to the shores of Waimea, Hawaii, for a Convention experience rooted in connection, collaboration, and the spirit of the islands.
Enjoy shared experiences that bring our community together and contribute to the ideas that move the baking industry forward. BEMA Convention 2026 will be a chance to step away, tune in, and strengthen the relationships that matter most to your business.
Maximize The Value Of Your BEMA Membership
“With the support of BEMA and the engaging events throughout the years I can personally say I’ve had a significant ROI … My first BEMA I met some new customers with just a handshake or a hello. My second BEMA, it was a ‘hey, I remember you. We met in the buffet line at breakfast.’ Each connection point adds upon the previous until eventually you chat during BEMA Connect and find there is an opportunity to partner on a solution. The connection growth becomes exponential the more you participate.
Josh Becker, Harpak-Ulma
Please Login To Your BEMA Account To Register For BEMA Convention 2026
- Login
- Sign Up
If you do not have a BEMA account, you can click the “Sign Up” tab to create one.
Learn More!

BEMA Convention 2026 Details
BEMA Convention 2026 Agenda
WEDNESDAY, JUNE 24
| Time | Event | Location |
|---|---|---|
| 10:00 am - 1:00pm | Board of Directors Meeting & Lunch*Invite Only | Plaza 3 |
| 12:00 pm – 2:00 pm | Baking Industry Forum Lunch & Meeting* Invite Only | Plaza 3 |
| 1:00 pm - 4:00 pm | Registration Open | Paniolo Lounge |
| 2:30 pm - 4:00 pm | Past Chair Meeting* Invite only | Plaza 3 |
| 5:00 pm - 6:00 pm | Board, BIF, Past Chair Reception* Invite Only | Wailana Garden |
| 6:00pm - 9:00 pm | Board of Director's Activity* Invite Only | Off-site |
THURSDAY, JUNE 25
| Time | Event | Location |
|---|---|---|
| 10:00 am - 5:00 pm | Registration Open | Paniolo Lounge |
| All Day | Day of Leisure | Various Locations |
| 6:00pm – 7:30 pm | Welcome Reception | Plantation Estates |
FRIDAY, JUNE 26
| Time | Event | Location |
|---|---|---|
| 6:00 am - 7:00 am | BEMA Cup Golf Grab-N-Go Breakfast | Ballroom Courtyard |
| 8:00 am - 2:00 pm | BEMA Cup Golf Tournament *Registration Required | Mauna Lani South Course |
| 8:00 am - 2:00 pm | Non-Golf Activity | |
| 10:00 am - 5:00 pm | Registration Open | Paniolo Lounge |
| 1:00 pm - 3:00 pm | Kid's Connect Activity | |
| 5:00 pm - 6:00 pm | Baker's Toast Reception *Invite Only | Courtyard Lanai |
| 6:00 pm - 10:00 pm | Small Group Dinners #1* Registration Required |
SATURDAY, JUNE 27
| Time | Event | Location |
|---|---|---|
| 7:00 am - 1:00pm | Information Desk | Ballroom Foyer |
| 7:30am - 9:00am | Good Morning Breakfast Buffet | Brown's Beach House |
| 9:00 - 10:30 am | Keynote Address | Grand Ballroom |
| 10:30 am - 11:00 am | Morning Refresher Networking Break | Ballroom Courtyard |
| 11:00 am - 1:00 pm | Industry Insight Workshop & Luncheon | Grand Ballroom |
| 1:00 pm - 4:00 pm | Kid's Connect Activity | Paniolo Lounge |
| 2:00 pm - 4:00 pm | Paddles with Purpose: BEMA Gives Back Pickleball Tournament *Registration Required | Tennis Pavilion |
| 5:00 pm - 6:00 pm | Optional Activity: Lei Po'o Bar - Hair Flowers *Registration Required | |
| 6:00 pm - 10:00 pm | Theme Dinner: Lava Flow Luau Experience | Turtle Point |
SUNDAY, JUNE 28
| Time | Event | Location |
|---|---|---|
| 8:00 am - 2:00pm | Information Desk | Ballroom Foyer |
| 10:00 am - 10:45 am | General Membership Meeting | Grand Ballroom |
| 10:45 am - 11:45 am | Industry Insight Session | Grand Ballroom |
| 11:45 am - 12:30 pm | Networking Luncheon | Ballroom Courtyard |
| 12:30 pm - 1:30 pm | Industry Insight Session | Grand Ballroom |
| 1:00 pm - 4:00 pm | Kid's Connect Activity | Paniolo Lounge |
| 1:30 pm - 2:00 pm | Afternoon Refresher Networking Break | Ballroom Courtyard |
| 2:00 pm - 3:00 pm | Committee Meetings | Plaza 1, 2, 3 |
| 6:00 pm - 10:00 pm | Small Group Dinners #2* Registration Required |
MONDAY, JUNE 29
| Time | Event | Location |
|---|---|---|
| 8:00 am - 2:00 pm | Information Desk | Ballroom Foyer |
| 8:00 am - 10:00 am | Optional Activity: TBD | TBD |
| 10:00 am -11:00 am | Industry Collaboration Brunch | Ballroom Courtyard |
| 12:00 pm - 4:00 pm | BEMA Connect* Registration Required | Grand Ballroom |
| 1:00 pm - 4:00 pm | Kid's Connect Activity | Paniolo Lounge |
| 2:00 pm - 2:15 pm | Afternoon Refresher Networking Break | Ballroom Courtyard |
| 6:00 pm - 7:30 pm | Chairman's Reception | Croquet Lawn |
| 7:30 pm - 12:00 am | Chairman's Dinner & Dance | Grand Ballroom |
HOTEL RESERVATION DEADLINE: 5:00PM CST, May 15, 2026
Cancellations for your BEMA Convention Registration received in writing by close of business on Friday, May 15, 2026, will be refunded less a 10% cancellation charge. Cancellations for your BEMA Convention Registration received in writing by close of business May 16th through close of business on June 1st will be refunded less a 25% cancellation charge. No refunds will be issued for cancellations received after close of business on June 1, 2026.
| Event Name | Who Should Attend | Recommended Dress |
|---|---|---|
| Board of Directors Meeting & Lunch | Invited Business Attendee | Resort Casual |
| Baking Industry Forum Lunch & Meeting | Invited Business Attendee | Resort Casual |
| Past Chair Meeting | Invited Business Attendee | Resort Casual |
| Board, BIF, PC Reception | Invited Business Attendee | Resort Casual |
| Board of Director's Activity | Invited Business Attendee | Specific information will be provided. |
| Day of Leisure | Pre-Registered Attendees | Specific information will be provided. |
| Welcome Reception | All baker and supplier business attendees, adult guests and children. | Resort Casual |
| BEMA Cup Golf Tournament | Pre-Registered Attendees | Traditional Golf Attire |
| Non-Golf Activity | Pre-Registered Attendees | Specific information will be provided. |
| Kid's Connect Activity | Baker and supplier business attendees and adult guests with their children. | |
| Baker's Toast Reception | Invited bakers | Resort Casual |
| Small Group Dinners #1 | Pre-registered baker and supplier business attendees and their adult guest. Teens and children do NOT attend small group dinners. | Refer to restaurant dress code. |
| Good Morning Breakfast Buffet | All baker and supplier business attendees, adult guests and children. | Resort Casual |
| Keynote Address | All baker and supplier business attendees, adult guests and children. | Resort Casual |
| Morning Refresher Networking Break | Baker and supplier business attendees only. This event is NOT for adult guests or kids. | Resort Casual |
| Industry Insight Workshop & Luncheon | Baker and supplier business attendees only. This event is NOT for adult guests or kids. | Resort Casual |
| Paddles with Purpose: BEMA Gives Back Pickleball Tournament | Pre-Registered Attendees | Traditional Pickleball Attire |
| Optional Activity: Lei Po'o Bar - Hair Flowers | Pre-Registered Attendees | Resort Casual |
| Theme Dinner: Lava Flow Luau Experience | All baker and supplier business attendees, adult guests and children. | Resort Casual |
| General Membership Meeting | Baker and supplier business attendees only. This event is NOT for adult guests or kids. | Resort Casual |
| Industry Insight Session | Baker and supplier business attendees only. This event is NOT for adult guests or kids. | Resort Casual |
| Networking Luncheon | Baker and supplier business attendees only. This event is NOT for adult guests or kids. | Resort Casual |
| Industry Insight Session | Baker and supplier business attendees only. This event is NOT for adult guests or kids. | Resort Casual |
| Afternoon Refresher Networking Break | Baker and supplier business attendees only. This event is NOT for adult guests or kids. | Resort Casual |
| Committee Meetings | Baker and supplier business attendees only. This event is NOT for adult guests or kids. | Resort Casual |
| Small Group Dinners #2 | Pre-registered baker and supplier business attendees and their adult guest. Teens and children do NOT attend small group dinners. | Refer to restaurant dress code. |
| Optional Activity: TBD | Pre-Registered Attendees | Resort Casual |
| Industry Collaboration Brunch | Baker and supplier business attendees only. This event is NOT for adult guests or kids. | Resort Casual |
| BEMA Connect | Baker and supplier business attendees only. This event is NOT for adult guests or kids. | Resort Casual |
| Afternoon Refresher Networking Break | Baker and supplier business attendees only. This event is NOT for adult guests or kids. | Resort Casual |
| Chairman's Reception | All baker and supplier business attendees, adult guests and children. | Resort Casual |
| Chairman's Dinner & Dance | All baker and supplier business attendees, adult guests and children. | Resort Casual |
Fairmont Orchid
Address
1 North Kaniku Drive, Waimea
96743 HAWAII
Book your hotel room here; the hotel reservation deadline is 5:00PM CST, May 15, 2026.
Cancellation Policy: Cancellations for your BEMA Convention Registration received in writing by close of business on Friday, May 15, 2026, will be refunded less a 10% cancellation charge. Cancellations for your BEMA Convention Registration received in writing by close of business May 16th through close of business on June 1st will be refunded less a 25% cancellation charge. No refunds will be issued for cancellations received after close of business on June 1, 2026.
About The Fairmont Orchid
Fairmont Orchid is a luxury resort located along the black-lava Kohala Coast of Hawaiʻi Island. Fairmont Orchid is just a short drive from top Hawaiʻi attractions, such as world-renowned beaches, scenic hikes and waterfalls.
The story of Fairmont Orchid stretches back hundreds of years to when native Hawaiians fished, farmed and lived in perfect harmony with nature in a region known as Kalahuipuaʻa. From the ancient pathways once traversed by King Kamehameha I to the serene landscapes where native Hawaiians thrived in harmony with nature, every corner of our property echoes with the spirit of aloha.
Airport Directions
The nearest airport is the Ellison Onizuka Kona International Airport at Keahole (KOA) which is located approximately 30 minutes and 19.5 miles from the resort. Directions from Kona International Airport to Fairmont Orchid:
- Turn left at the stoplight exiting the Kona International Airport onto Highway 19.
- Remain on Highway 19 for 19.5 miles.
- The entrance to Mauna Lani Drive is located on the left (ocean side) of the highway, marked by a noticeable coconut grove and rock wall sign.
- Enter the resort on Mauna Lani Drive and proceed for about a mile to the round-about traffic circle.
- Enter the circle, yielding to traffic.
- Take the first right turn which is North Kaniku Drive.
- Stay on North Kaniku Drive until you reach the main entrance to the Fairmont Orchid at the end of the drive.
Beach
The Fairmont Orchid hosts a picturesque man-made beach. Be sure and meet the native Hawaiian Green Sea Turtles (honu) that bask on our shoreline every afternoon. On the beach by 8:00 a.m. every day, our Orchid Beach Club Ambassadors (Hui Holokai) not only cater to the beach comforts of guests by setting up chairs and daybeds with towels and ice water, checking out beach equipment and suggesting sunscreen, but the real fun begins when they share their knowledge of the Big Island's rich cultural heritage as well as their own Hawaiian legacies mixed alongside.
Registration Information
To register:
- Login or create your BEMA account
- Navigate to the BEMA Convention 2026 page
- Click the button in the header image “Register for BEMA Convention 2026”
- Complete all registration information
- Pay & register!
Registration Price
- BEMA Member Early Bird Registration: $3,595 – through February 13, 2026
- BEMA Member Registration: $3,795
- Adult Guest Registration: $1,495
- Children Ages 6-20 Registration: $395
- Children Ages 0-5 Registration: Complimentary
- Non-Member Registration: $5,995
Key Contacts
For registration questions, changes or cancellations, please contact:
Rene Boudreaux, Technical Project Manager, BEMA
Cell: 816-550-4372
Email: rboudreaux@bema.org
For general questions regarding BEMA Convention 2026, please contact:
Wes Luczak, Membership Manager, BEMA
Cell: 414-429-4069
Email: wluczak@bema.org
For questions regarding baker attendance, or if you need to book a suite, please contact:
Emily Bowers, Vice President, Education & Operations, BEMA
Cell: 816-805-9799
Email: ebowers@bema.org
-
BEMA Convention 2026: Yearbook Sponsor
$1,000.00
Day of Leisure – Thursday, June 25th
Spirit of Aloha Catamaran Snorkel Sail – $350/person
This is a morning departure tour that returns in early afternoon.
Explore the Waikoloa and Kohala-Kona coastline aboard the Iconic Hilton Spirit of Aloha, a 54-foot sailing catamaran that provides the ultimate in sailing comfort and snorkeling fun, where guests are likely to see dolphins, sea turtles, and other marine life. A large vessel that is safe for all ages, conveniences include an on-board freshwater shower, restrooms, plenty of shade, and ample seating.
- Snacks, unlimited water, juice, soda
- Two (2) complimentary alcoholic beverages per adult (after swimming and snorkeling)
- In-water help by Lifeguard-certified crew
- Required safety vest & sanitized re-usable snorkel gear.
Captain Zodiac Raft Expedition – $350/person
This is an early morning departure tour that returns in early afternoon.
Exploring Hawaii Island’s Kona Coast on Captain Zodiac’s 24-foot “RIBs” is the experience of a lifetime! For over 40 years, Captain Zodiac has introduced visitors to an array of nature’s secret wonders that can only be
experienced in a Zodiac Raft. The small group atmosphere of our expedition allows for a personal and intimate tour. Snorkel in the crystal-clear waters of Kealakekua Bay Marine Preserve, site of the Captain Cook monument. These highly maneuverable, military Zodiacs can get you close to the many lava tubes, sea caves, and blow holes of this rugged coastline. Your captains/naturalists will tell stories of Hawaiian history and culture, island geology, and many marine species that you will encounter.
- Guests on this tour should not be physically challenged or unable to walk short distances of 2 to 3
miles on uneven terrain. (easy to moderate hiking) - Must be 8 years of age or older.
- Recommended attire includes a light jacket or sweatshirt, wearing closed-toe sport shoes or walking shoes,
(NO sandals or flip-flops) comfortable walking shorts and bring a hat and sunscreen.
Deep Sea Fishing – $500/person
This is an early morning departure tour that returns in early afternoon.
Come abord for a fantastic deep sea fishing adventure. We have three boats that are available for deep sea fishing throughout the year. All ages and all experience levels are welcome; we want to ensure everyone (from beginner fishers to experts) have a great time! The warm tropical waters off Kona’s shores are home to some of the greatest big game fish in the world, including Pacific blue marlin, ahi (yellow fin tuna), ono (wahoo) and mahi-mahi (dolphin fish). Departing from the fuel dock, you will set sail in your private vessel with a seasoned captain and crew. Catch grand panoramic vistas of Hawaii Island on your way to the fishing site.
Ocean Kayak & Snorkeling Adventure – $450/person
This is a morning departure tour that returns in early afternoon.
Enjoy a fun filled adventure day of kayaking and snorkeling in crystal clear Puako Bay. Start your adventure with a brief safety and paddling demonstration, then we launch the kayaks and paddle along the beautiful Kohala coast for about 20-30 minutes to our favorite snorkeling spot. Once we arrive, we tie the kayaks up to a buoy and pass out snorkel gear. We carefully explain how to properly use the gear and how to get in and out of the kayaks (don’t worry, anyone can do it and the guides can give you a little boost back in, if you need a little help). After snorkeling, we go to a nice beach for a light picnic lunch & photo op before heading back to Puako Bay.
- Children under the age of 5 years are not permitted.
- The afternoon tour is not suitable for anyone prone to seasickness, and we will no longer allow kids under 12,
or adults over 70, due to potentially rough conditions. - To ensure safety, you must be able to swim, float, and be comfortable in the ocean. Participants should be
reasonably physically fit. - Recommended footwear includes “aqua socks” or Teva type footwear.
- Participants should bring their own towel.
- Maximum weight is (225 pounds per person), unless highly athletic or experienced in kayaks and then maybe 240 would be okay with a smaller partner.
- Ocean conditions are unpredictable; mornings are usually calmer than afternoons. We do need to warn people not to come if they are prone to seasickness or have no prior experience because some afternoons
can get pretty choppy.
Custom Volcano Tour – $400/person
This is a morning departure tour that returns in late afternoon.
Hawaii’s most in-depth volcano experience is here! Maximize your day with an 8-hour adventure exploring the iconic sites on the east side of Hawaii Island, including Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, Rainbow Falls, and Big Island Candies. Accompany our National Park Certified Guides as you journey through the ever-changing landscapes of Hawaii Volcanoes National Park. This is a great opportunity for guests who want a quick introduction to some of the highlights of Hawaii Volcanoes National Park and Hilo Town in a truncated format.
- Guests on this tour should not be physically challenged or unable to walk short distances of 2 to 3 miles on uneven terrain. (easy to moderate hiking)
- Must be 8 years of age or older.
- Recommended attire includes a light jacket or sweatshirt, wearing closed-toe sport shoes or walking shoes, (NO sandals or flip-flops) comfortable walking shorts and bring a hat and sunscreen.
Kohala Waterfalls Adventure – $425/person
There are two departure times available for this activity.
Immerse yourself in Kohala’s stunning beauty and rich history on this exclusive adventure. On a fun, off-road adventure and relaxed trail walk, experience dramatic views of Pololu Valley, charming foot bridges, historic taro terraces, and intimate waterfalls. With an opportunity to swim at a waterfall and stroll the quaint plantation village of Hawi, this is the perfect tour for all ages. The excursion begins with a narrated, scenic drive through the Kohala countryside to the trailhead to begin the hike. The journey features easy walking, countryside views, and a chance for a quick dip in a mountain stream with cascading falls overhead.
- Fitness level: easy to moderate. Guests must be able to walk over uneven, muddy terrain and manage short climbs. The walking distance is less than 2 miles. 15-Minutes of rugged four-wheel driving.
- Not recommended for pregnant women or anyone with neck or back problems.
Kohala Na’alapa Morning Trail Ride – $425/person
This is a morning departure tour that returns at noon.
Explore the island’s most hidden natural treasures as the early settlers did – on horseback! This truly unique island adventure takes you on an unforgettable journey into the rolling hills of historic Kahua Ranch. There, you will be greeted with incredible views of the mountains and golden coastline. Your leisurely ride explores curious cinder cones, mysterious ancient Hawaiian ruins, and lush pastures. Sheep and cattle graze throughout the landscape, adding to an experience that will carry on forever. The experienced paniolos (Hawaiian cowboys) and well-trained horses make for superb riding conditions, maximum safety for the beginners and maximum flexibility for the experts. This ride is not a nose-to-tail tour. Opportunities for trotting and cantering are available.
- Children under age 8 years of age /Adults over 70 years of age are not permitted.
- The Rider’s minimum height must be 3’8” and minimum weight 50lbs.
- The maximum weight limit is 230lbs per person.
Friday, June 26th
Kona Sea Salt Experience – $300/person
NOTE: This event takes place during the BEMA Cup Golf Tournament. Attendees cannot participate in both activities.
Kona Sea Salt is one of only two remaining salt farms in Hawaii. Located on a gorgeous, 7-acre oceanfront area on Keahole Point in Kona on the Natural Energy Lab Hawaii (HELHA) Campus. Kona Sea Salts, hand harvest salt from deep ocean water drawn from 2,200 feet below the surface; their Salt Master, Mel Kelekolio uses both traditional Hawaiian and modern knowledge. Salt in Hawaii has deep cultural significance, it is used in ceremonial blessings of voyages, homes, new ventures, babies, to preserve abundant catches of fish and in purification rituals. A salt gift comes with lots of symbolism.
Saturday, June 27th
Paddles with Purpose: BEMA Gives Back Pickleball Tournament – $250/person
Get ready to serve for a cause at the BEMA Gives Back Pickleball Tourney! Whether you’re a seasoned pickleball pro or you’ve never picked up a paddle, this inaugural tournament is all about friendly competition, big laughs, and doing good together. Teams will battle it out on the courts for bragging rights, a touch of glory, and—most importantly—to support a wonderful local charity. Every rally, dink, and smash helps make a difference in our host community.
Lei Po’o Bar – Hair Flowers & Earrings – $200/person
This unique activity allows guests to create their own pair of earrings or hair arrangement using freshly picked Hawaiian Flowers. Whether scented, or not, each accessory becomes a work of art and self-expression. Earrings may be refrigerated to last for several days, often dry beautifully, or can be re-purposed with local flowers once guests arrive back home. Local artisans bring all the supplies, a bounty of flowers to choose from and artistic assistance if needed!
Welcome Reception
Enjoy an evening filled with warm island hospitality as we set the stage for a Convention rich in engagement, learning, and industry growth. Relax, unwind, and ease into the rhythm of Waimea with refreshing beverages and light, island-inspired appetizers served throughout the reception.
BEMA Cup Golf Tournament
Experience world-class golfing at the stunning Mauna Lani South Course on the Kohala Coast. This famed 18-hole championship links-style course offers powerful ocean and island views at every turn and is woven through the dramatic landscape of the ancient Kaniku lava flow. A celebrated course feature is the 15th hole—one of the most photographed over-the-water golf holes in the world—providing an unforgettable and truly bucket-list golf moment. The Mauna Lani South Course seamlessly blends natural beauty with strategic play, offering a memorable experience for golfers of all abilities. Prepare for stunning vistas, inspiring challenges, and a round you won't soon forget.
Baker's Toast Reception
Raise a glass at The Baker's Toast, an exclusive cocktail reception celebrating our esteemed baker guests.
Small Group Dinners
Connect with customers in a small-group setting. BEMA will organize groups of bakers and suppliers for a personal dinner experience. Spouses/adult guests are invited to attend small- group dinners. We do ask that you make other arrangements for children during the small group dinners.
*An email with registration details, time and location will be sent directly to attendees the week prior to Convention. Please refer to your calendar invitation for restaurant and small group details. Groups will gather and depart from a designated location; transportation is provided.
Good Morning Breakfast Buffet
Start your Saturday with a warm aloha, fresh coffee, and great company at Brown's Beach House. Join fellow attendees for a relaxed, island-inspired breakfast just steps from the ocean—an ideal way to connect, get oriented, and gear up for an exciting day of learning and meaningful conversations ahead.
Paddles with Purpose: BEMA Gives Back Pickleball Tournament
Get ready to serve for a cause at the BEMA GivesBack Pickleball Tourney! Whether you're a seasoned pickleball pro or you've never picked up a paddle, this inaugural tournament is all about friendly competition, big laughs, and doing good together.Teams will battle it out on the courts for bragging rights, a touch of glory, and—most importantly—to support a wonderful local charity. Every rally, dink, and smash helps make a difference in our host community.
Industry Collaboration Brunch
Start your day with the spirit of aloha at this collaborative breakfast featuring several leading industry associations. Attendees will join association hosts at dedicated tables for engaging discussions on key programs, initiatives, and opportunities shaping the future of the baking industry. It's a special chance to connect, share insights, and explore meaningful collaboration across our broader baking 'ohana.
BEMA Connect
BEMA Connect introduces bakers to suppliers they aren't currently working with and matches the baker's needs with supplier solutions. Meet one-on-one with baker guests, speed dating style.
*An email with detailed schedules will be sent in the weeks prior to Convention.

























