Industry News
Thought Leadership, Insights
and More From BEMA
Episode 21: The Importance Of Connections And Mentoring
Kerwin Brown interviews Adam Ungashick, Key Account Manager at Lesaffre, as he shares his life experience in the baking industry and the importance of connections and mentors in his career.
CEO Insights: Seeing BEMA Convention Through A Different Lens
After attending nearly 30 BEMA Conventions throughout my career as a member and staff member, this year's Convention looked a little different for me. While Texas wasn't quite the Big Island, family came first, and I experienced Convention remotely for the first time in decades. Surprisingly, that distance was a gift.
BEMA Board Spotlight: Michelle Pournelle
We're excited to spotlight Michelle Pournelle, Vice President at Benchmark Automation, and welcome her to the BEMA Board of Directors. Michelle's experience in automation and commitment to advancing the baking industry will bring a valuable perspective as BEMA continues connecting, educating, and supporting our members. Get to know Michelle and learn more about her path in the industry.
BEMA Board Spotlight: Teresa J Ruder
We're excited to spotlight Teresa J. Ruder, Vice President of Business Development & Marketing at LeMatic, and welcome her to the BEMA Board of Directors. Teresa brings valuable industry experience and a passion for collaboration that will help guide BEMA as we continue building on our strategic plan and creating greater value for our members. Learn more about Teresa, her journey in the industry, and what inspires her commitment to BEMA.
IBIE 2028: Planning Beyond The Booth
Trade shows have always been about making connections. They bring together people, ideas, and innovations that help move the baking industry forward. As technology continues to change how people research and ultimately spend on capital resources, the role of events, like IBIE, is evolving as well. During BEMA’s Convention 2026, Kimberly Hardcastle, Chief Strategist at Freeman, shared new research on how attendee expectations are changing and what that means for exhibitors.
Building Safer Bakeries; Producing Safer Food
Every bakery is different. Equipment, products, and processes vary. When it comes to food safety and hygienic design, everyone across the baking industry is working toward the same goal: delivering safe, high-quality products while taking care of the people who love making them. That shared purpose was at the heart of a thoughtful panel discussion featuring Jeff Shura, Chad Larson, Nick Magistrelli and Matt Zielsdorf.
From Ideas to Execution: How The Commercial Baking Industry Can Build Stronger Commercialization Strategies
BEMA’s Operations Spotlight panel at Convention 2026, moderated by Sergio Caballero, brought together leaders from across the commercial baking industry. The discussion explored how manufacturers and suppliers can work together to navigate commercialization challenges, accelerate innovation, and build more resilient operations.
The Commercial Baking Industry Guide To AI
Jon Lakefish walks the baking industry through practical AI strategies to implement with your team today.
Stronger Together: How Purpose, Connection, and Shared Goals Transform Our Organizations
Build momentum with Seb Terry's keynote delivered at BEMA Convention 2026 in Waimea, Hawaii. Forward his inspirational message onto your team.
Press Release: BEMA Convention Delivers Strategic Insights, Practical Solutions, and Meaningful Member Value
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.
Press Release: Fred Springer Lifetime Achievement Award
The Bakery Equipment Manufacturers and Allieds (BEMA) is proud to announce that Kurt Miller of J&K Ingredients has been named the 2026 recipient of the Fred Springer Lifetime Achievement Award, the organization’s highest honor.
What’s Next For BEMA: Our Strategic Plan
Built on strength. Focused on the future. Driven by member value. BEMA’s Strategic Plan is more than a roadmap—it’s a commitment to our members. BEMA is building on what makes this community strong while evolving how we deliver value across every touchpoint.
