“This study reinforces what we hear from commercial baking professionals every day, that the workforce challenge is both urgent and evolving,” said Kristen L. Spriggs, ASB executive director. “We are proud to help chart a shared roadmap that empowers employers to rethink how they recruit, train and retain top-tier talent.”

Focused on hourly production roles including loaders/shippers, drivers, machine operators, maintenance and engineering specialists, and salaried positions including R&D, quality control/assurance, and supply chain professionals, the study digs into not only workforce challenges but also best practices driving the greatest impact for bakery operations.

With collaboration from IDDBA, the study addresses the fact that workforce woes are impacting the commercial baking industry across the entire supply chain.

“This collaboration provides the ability to address workforce trends and challenges impacting bakers, manufacturers and retail today,” said Heather Prach IDDBA VP of education and industry relations. “It’s a big step toward creating — and sustaining — future growth opportunities for all.”