Convention

At BEMA Convention 2025, panelists from Puerto Rico and Jamaica shared firsthand insights into the Caribbean baking market, from the popularity of Pan Sobao and dense white loaves to labor challenges and equipment logistics. Their stories highlighted regional resilience, export growth, and the power of elevating the profession of baking across borders.

BEMA Convention 2025 keynote speaker Chris Clews used iconic ’80s pop culture moments, from The Karate Kid to The Goonies, to share powerful, relevant leadership lessons. With humor and heart, he reminded attendees to breathe, show kindness, embrace change, and leave a lasting legacy, one handwritten note or Baby Ruth at a time.

BEMA Intel equips baking industry leaders with powerful business intelligence through quarterly trend reports, market data dashboards, and member insights. From validating sales trends to uncovering strategic blind spots, members shared how BEMA Intel helps them make smarter, more confident decisions in a shifting marketplace.

Join Kelly Allen, Emily Bowers and BEMA Chairman Clay Miller in the kitchen as they discuss all things Convention! From unique networking events, sponsors, tours & more, you won't want to miss this episode.

We are thrilled to announce that Chris Clews, a keynote speaker, author, and expert in ‘80s pop culture, will be headlining Convention 2025! With over 20 years of corporate marketing experience, Chris brings a unique blend of career development, life lessons, and nostalgia from iconic ‘80s films. Get ready for a fun and insightful session on communication, leadership, and leaving a lasting impact—packed with memorable lessons from classics like The Princess Bride, The Breakfast Club, and more. Plus, test your ‘80s knowledge with a Mix Tape Quiz for a chance to win exciting prizes!

Join Kelly and Emily In the Kitchen as they chat about what to expect at NEXUS 2024! Kelly and Emily highlight how NEXUS is designed to be an event for everyone to attend from executive level to industry up-and-comers. If you're curious about NEXUS education sessions and networking events, don't miss this episode!

Let's hear it one more time for BEMA's Fred Springer Lifetime Achievement Award winner, Mike Gude!

On Saturday, June 29, BEMA Convention 2024 brought together an industry panel for a Q&A session discussing association strategic initiatives and opportunities for collaboration. The industry panel included representatives from the American Society of Baking (ASB), the American Bakers Association (ABA), the Grain Foods Foundation (GFF), the Association for Packaging and Processing Technologies (PMMI), and BEMA.

On Saturday, June 29, BEMA Convention 2024 guests welcomed Rob Cotton, R&D Director, Packaging Sustainable Materials, PepsiCo who discussed how the company is proactively developing a range of new biodegradable materials to adapt to the evolving regulatory environment of RCBR (Recyclable, Compostable, Biodegradable and Reusable) compliance.

On Saturday, June 29, BEMA Convention 2024 brought together an industry panel focused on the increasing prevalence of snacking and the growing consumer desire for more snack variety.