
VUCA (Volatility, Uncertainty, Complexity and Ambiguity). These times throw a harsh spotlight on what can and ultimately does get done when ambiguity no longer warrants a spot at the table. Baking manufacturers are on the front-line of this evolution as they manage innumerable real-time elements of VUCA.

Kerwin Brown, CEO of BEMA, explains how BEMA is the "glue" in the industry. "In a time of extreme challenges, we feel incredibly lucky to have a front-row seat as the industry comes together to create and strengthen important connections."

Press Release: Hinds‐Bock President, Derek Pagenkopf, and Middleby Processing Group President, Mark Salman, announce Rod Gregg as Executive Vice President for the Auto‐Bake Serpentine Brand.

In a time of unprecedented need, BEMA is engaging its members to actively support hard-hit community QSRs by providing meals to heroic front-line workers through its member-wide “We Knead You” giveback initiative.

On Thursday, April 16, 2020 supplier members of the Baking Industry Forum gathered to share their insights and experiences via a town hall webinar.

During these challenging times, our members are finding ways to make helpful contributions in their local communities and around the country.

It’s no secret that workforce development is a major challenge in today’s baking industry. At IBIEducate we learned that 78 percent of baking companies are reporting a shortage of employees and at IBIE 2019 we awarded BEST in Baking industry awards to companies that are working to tackle this important issue. In addition, we’re working to create a strong workforce in the future through our new Student Immersion Program, which gives emerging industry professionals a taste of the industry and tools to kickstart their careers.

Every three years, the entire baking community comes together at IBIE to experience new technology, access best-in-class education, find inspiration and connect with important resources. Because this is the venue where baking professionals in all roles and from every industry segment join together, the progress that originates at IBIE helps to shape the future of the global grain-based foods industry.

For nearly 50 years, Earth Day has served as a reminder of how important it is for us all to be good stewards of our planet. At IBIE and Flowers Foods, we recognize that sustainability makes the industry stronger and increases profitability over the long term. Flowers is committed to applying sustainability processes to all aspects of its business. Working with team members, business partners, suppliers, and customers, we continually look to prevent waste of water, packaging, energy, and other resources.

It’s almost time for the International Baking Industry Exposition, the global grain-based food industry’s largest, most comprehensive trade event in the Western Hemisphere. There are many new and exciting features in store this year, from new show floor areas dedicated to the artisan bread industry to the most robust IBIEducate program to-date. IBIE is, of course, an international bakery expo, so you’ll experience unequaled opportunities to connect with a broad range of industry professionals from all over the world.

