ceo blog

From the Caribbean to Japan, the baking industry is more connected than ever. BEMA is embracing this global reality by breaking language barriers, fostering international relationships, and ensuring bakers everywhere can share knowledge, innovation, and opportunity.

What started as a leap of faith in 2005 has become the most rewarding journey of my professional life. Over the past 20 years, I’ve had the privilege of watching BEMA grow into a thriving, global community - rooted in purpose, powered by people, and guided by a shared passion for the baking industry.

On February 24th, the Baking & Snack Capital Spending Insights webinar provided an in-depth look at how industrial baking companies plan to invest in new equipment and technology in 2025. The conversation reflected a mix of optimism and caution as businesses navigate evolving challenges and opportunities.

Change is inevitable, but with the right strategies, you can navigate uncertainty and lead with confidence.

Ferris Bueller once said, “Life moves pretty fast. If you don’t stop and look around once in a while, you could miss it.” Ferris Bueller’s Day Off hit movie screens in 1986, but those words still ring true nearly 40 years later, especially when it comes to the baking industry.

Discover how the timeless principles in The Go-Giver can transform your approach to business and relationships in 2025.

Reflecting on a year of growth, connections, and exciting moments that shaped BEMA’s journey and looking ahead to even more in 2025.

As I take a moment to reflect on this year’s NEXUS event, one thing is abundantly clear: there is an undeniable hunger in our industry for connection.

BEMA connects. It’s a simple phrase that has come to define our association. Whether you’ve attended BEMA Connect at one of our Conventions, dined with us at a Regional Dinner, or networked at NEXUS; connecting is at the heart of what we do.

Recently, BEMA chairman Clay Miller and I went on a trip we called the Tour de BEMA where we visited several of our member companies and talked with them about the state of the industry and its future.