The American Bakers Association (ABA) has reached a remarkable milestone of 375 member companies, highlighting the thriving state of the U.S. baking industry. Based in Washington, D.C., the organization now represents over 1,200 commercial baking facilities and supply chain partners across the nation. This growth coincides with preparations for the highly anticipated 2025 ABA Convention scheduled for March 23-26 in Orlando, Florida. “This 375-member company milestone reflects the strength of the baking industry and the unwavering commitment of ABA to deliver meaningful connections, strategic insights, and powerful advocacy,” said Eric Dell, President and CEO of the ABA.
Membership Growth Reflects Industry Strength
The ABA’s achievement of 375 member companies marks a significant milestone for the organization. This growth reflects not just the expansion of the association but the overall health and resilience of the baking industry in America. The organization’s strategic plan emphasizes advocacy, events, and thought leadership, which has resonated with companies throughout the baking sector.
From small family bakeries to industrial-scale operations, the ABA brings together diverse businesses with shared interests. The representation of over 1,200 commercial baking facilities demonstrates the broad reach and influence of the association. This extensive network creates powerful opportunities for collaboration and innovation across the industry.
Much like bread’s enduring cultural importance, the ABA has established itself as a cornerstone institution in the food production landscape. The association’s growth comes at a time when the baking industry faces both challenges and opportunities, from supply chain disruptions to changing consumer preferences.
Eric Dell, President and CEO of the ABA, emphasized the significance of this membership milestone: “Our growing membership base allows us to amplify the voice of bakers at all levels of government and throughout the business community. Together, we’re stronger and more effective at addressing the issues that matter most to our industry.”
2025 ABA Convention: Setting the Stage for Industry Dialogue
The upcoming 2025 ABA Convention in Orlando, Florida represents one of the most anticipated industry gatherings in recent years. Scheduled for March 23-26, the event will bring together more than 50 leading baking companies, making it potentially the largest convention in recent memory. The timing couldn’t be better as the industry continues to adapt to post-pandemic realities and emerging market trends.
Attendees can look forward to comprehensive trends presentations that will highlight where the industry is headed. Customer panels will provide valuable insights directly from those who purchase and consume baked goods. The business-to-business networking opportunities remain one of the most valuable aspects of the convention, allowing bakers, suppliers, and industry partners to forge meaningful connections.
Bill Quigg, ABA Chairman and President of Richmond Baking Co., extended an invitation to potential new members: “For those who have yet to experience the ABA community, now is the time to engage and join. The convention offers an unparalleled opportunity to connect with industry leaders and shape the future of baking in America.”
Recent innovations in cookie and donut production trends will likely feature prominently at the convention. The event serves as both a celebration of traditional baking methods and a showcase for cutting-edge technologies that are transforming production processes. For additional information on the ABA and its events, industry professionals can visit the American Bakers Association website.
Bipartisan Baking Caucus: Political Advocacy for Industry Needs
In a strategic move to strengthen its advocacy efforts, the ABA has established a bipartisan baking caucus in Congress. This initiative brings together legislators committed to supporting policies that promote industry growth, workforce training, and supply chain effectiveness. The caucus is co-chaired by Congressman John Joyce (R-PA-13) and Congressman Donald G. Davis (D-NC-01), demonstrating the cross-party appeal of the baking industry’s concerns.
Eric Dell highlighted the importance of this political alignment: “Having a dedicated group of legislators who are invested in our industry means we can better influence policy decisions and fight back against regulations that threaten our growth.” This caucus will focus on addressing legislative challenges that affect bakers nationwide, from ingredient labeling requirements to employment regulations.
The formation of this caucus represents a significant achievement in the ABA’s advocacy strategy. By creating a formal structure within Congress, the baking industry has established a direct channel for communication with lawmakers. This approach allows for more nuanced and effective advocacy on complex regulatory issues.
Just as innovative fusion desserts bring together diverse culinary traditions, the bipartisan baking caucus unites politicians across the aisle around shared economic interests. The caucus will work to ensure that legislation supports rather than hinders the baking industry’s contribution to the American economy and food supply.
Workforce Development: Building the Bakery Teams of Tomorrow
The ABA is taking proactive steps to address one of the industry’s most pressing challenges: workforce recruitment and retention. With nearly 800,000 employees in the baking industry, the need for qualified workers continues to grow. The association has developed comprehensive recruitment tools and training solutions designed to help member companies attract and develop talent.
These workforce initiatives aim to position the baking industry as a destination for career-seekers. By highlighting the technological sophistication of modern baking operations and the stable career paths available, the ABA hopes to change perceptions about work in food production. Training programs focus not only on technical skills but also on leadership development and food safety protocols.
Beyond skills development, the ABA emphasizes the importance of community engagement. During the 2025 convention, participants will have the opportunity to join a service project at Second Harvest Food Bank of Central Florida. This activity reflects the industry’s commitment to addressing food insecurity while building team cohesion among convention attendees.
“Giving back is in the DNA of the baking industry,” said Eric Dell, highlighting how community service connects to the fundamental purpose of baking. The industry’s growing interest in vegan baking options also reflects this conscious approach to meeting diverse consumer needs while addressing broader social concerns.
Fostering Innovation and Resilience in Baking’s Future
The ABA’s growth and upcoming convention highlight the baking industry’s remarkable resilience and adaptability. Despite facing challenges from supply chain disruptions to changing consumer preferences, the industry continues to thrive. Innovation remains at the heart of this success, with bakers constantly developing new products and processes to meet evolving market demands.
The association’s focus on advocacy, workforce development, and community engagement positions it as a true leader in the food industry. By connecting member companies with resources, information, and each other, the ABA creates an environment where innovation can flourish. This collaborative approach helps ensure that the industry remains competitive and relevant in a rapidly changing marketplace.
Understanding global dessert traditions has become increasingly important as American bakers incorporate international influences into their offerings. The ABA facilitates this knowledge exchange through its educational programs and networking events, helping members stay ahead of flavor trends and consumer preferences.
As the ABA continues to grow its membership and expand its initiatives, the future looks bright for the American baking industry. From its headquarters in Washington, D.C. to its nationwide membership network, the association remains committed to fostering connections and driving progress. The 2025 Convention in Orlando represents not just a celebration of current success but a launching point for the next chapter in the industry’s continued evolution.
For those interested in submitting a favorite local dessert shop to our business directory, we’re always looking to highlight outstanding bakeries across the country. And if you’ve developed your own special treat, consider submitting your dessert recipe to be featured on our site – you might just inspire the next big bakery trend!
Whether you’re a baking industry professional or simply someone who appreciates the craft of baking, the growth of organizations like the ABA benefits us all through improved quality, innovation, and accessibility of baked goods. As we look ahead to the 2025 Convention and beyond, there’s never been a more exciting time to be connected to the world of baking.