WASHINGTON DC — The American Bakers Association (ABA), has announced its new partnership with American Society of Baking (ASB) and Retail Bakers of America (RBA) for the Bakers Fly-In and Policy Summit to be held Nov. 13-14 in Washington DC.
Leaders across the baking industry — including wholesale, retail and supplier organizations — will gather in Washington DC to meet with members of Congress, executive branch leaders and regulators at various agencies to advocate for policies impacting baking businesses.
“Advocacy is all about strength in numbers and bringing people together, which is exactly what this fly-in will do,” said Eric Dell, president and CEO of ABA. “ABA recognizes our unique role as the baking sector’s leader in our nation’s capital. We are excited to partner with ASB and RBA to tell the baking industry’s stories to lawmakers and regulators and illustrate how federal policies and regulations impact the baking industry. It will be very powerful and impactful.”
During the two-day event, attendees will have the opportunity to bring forth issues and perspectives from their businesses and promote policy solutions on behalf of all bakers, focusing on the critical areas of workforce, nutrition and supply chain.
“This joint event will represent the heart and soul of the baking industry — hardworking people who pour themselves into making a product to help feed their fellow Americans,” said Kristen L. Spriggs, executive director of ASB. “Our collective voice will show the diversity of our industry and how the issues impact every company at any size.”
In addition to the summit, ABA will host events focused on food safety and nutrition policy with its Food Technical and Regulatory Affairs Professional Group as well as a diversity, equity and inclusion working group conference that ASB and RBA members may attend.
“Involving our members from the Retail Bakers of America in policy discussions is crucial as the industry evolves and expands,” said Bernadette Shanahan-Haas, executive director of RBA. “By giving them a seat at the table, their valuable insights and perspectives can contribute to shaping policies that align with the needs and challenges of brick-and-mortar bakeries on main streets across America.”
The summit will close with the Bakers’ Dozen Congressional Awards Reception on Capitol Hill. Congress members and staff are expected to attend, providing more opportunities for association members to engage with policymakers.
ABA members will also be able to attend a reception with a high-level political speaker hosted by the American Bakers Political Action Committee.
Additional information on the Bakes Fly-In and Policy Summit can be found on the registration website.
