IBIE’s show features offer something for everyone

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IBIE’s show features offer something for everyone

8 Sep 2025

Maddie Lambert

Maddie Lambert is a copywriter and editor from Joplin, MO. She graduated from Missouri Southern State University with a Bachelor of Arts in English – literary studies. When she’s not poring over the magazine or lost in the pages of a new novel, you can find Maddie exploring her local bookstores, spending time with her husband, or sharing her latest literary discoveries with fellow book enthusiasts.

KANSAS CITY, MO — Excitement for IBIE is building, and the industry is abuzz. The event hosts a curated blend of show features designed for baking industry professionals at all stages of their careers. Rooted in a passion for both commercial and retail sectors, the collection spans the show and its 1 million square feet of exhibition space, combining classic IBIE favorites with new touches.

The result? A comprehensive event that provides a space where education and networking meet creative competitions and industry awards.

The Baking Expo invites attendees to its triennial gathering not only for collaboration and innovative solutions but also to explore the latest trends and form lasting connections, leaving with the know-how and ambition to enhance their operations.

Check out a few key features of the 2025 Baking Expo.

Education and networking

The Artisan Village offers bakers an interactive hub where they can celebrate the art and history of specialty baked goods. With expert-led demos and craft competitions, this space is a prime spot for artisan and retail bakers to hone their skills and glean insights into the trade of bread
and pastries. This dynamic space will also house two competitions: the Panettone World Cup – Americas Selection and the IBIE World Bread Awards USA.

IBIEducate will grant access to expert insights, professional development and ideation areas through show registration. Attendees can choose from more than 250 sessions, demos and workshops presented by professionals addressing baking’s most pressing topics, ranging from labor and supply chain challenges to generational consumer shifts and sustainability.

For those wanting bite-sized educational sessions, IBIE’s QuickBITES feature 20-minute presentations from industry, health and trend experts. These sessions will be hosted over the span of four days, and topics will focus on grain-based foods issues, consumer perceptions and the future food chain.

IBIE’s combination of show features will ignite connections and cultivate a center for inspiration, where all levels of baking professionals can gather insights and share their knowledge.

Looking for something to spark the creative mindset? Retail Bakers of America’s Retail Bakers Center will feature live demos presented by celebrity chefs and major figures in the industry. Guests will hear inspiring stories, watch real-time baking competitions and discover
ways to elevate their technique and bakery cases.

The Wholesale Bakers Center will provide the opportunity to connect with bakers who specialize in the commercial segment of the industry in a space that offers a customized learning center
with in-depth discussions and peer-to-peer networking.

Inspiration will also come in the form of the BEST in Baking Awards program, which honors companies committed to positively impacting the industry and their workforces. The awards recognize leaders who not only champion the industry but also demonstrate excellence in categories such as sustainability, supply chain innovation, workforce development and automation.

Cake and pie

When bakers gather, (friendly) competition is bound to occur. Pillsbury’s Creative Cake Decorating Competition puts the skill of professional cake decorating on display during a head-to-head contest among six teams. The competition consists of four categories: wedding cake, rolled fondant, sculpted cake and buttercream. Attendees can get front-row seats to the panel of celebrity and certified master baker judges.

Pie also gets a slice of the spotlight with the Great American Pie Festival. In partnership with the American Pie Council, the show offers attendees opportunities for taste-testing; supermarket and restaurant buyers a chance to shop around; and suppliers a space to assess finished products made with specific ingredients or equipment.

Entertainment

Wang Chung will headline The Rockin’ Pint, which offers a chance to network over cold brews and ’80s music. Celebrity baker Duff Goldman and his band Foie Grock will perform an after-party set. Tickets for The Rockin’ Pint are $10 and available as an add-on for IBIE registrants.

IBIE’s combination of show features will ignite connections and cultivate a center for inspiration, where all levels of baking professionals can gather insights and share their knowledge. It’s safe to say … there will be something for everyone.

This story has been adapted from the Avant Food Media’s 2025 IBIE Show Issue. Read the digital edition here.

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