ABA strategic plan update

With the association just a little just more than a year into its five-year strategic plan, Eric Dell, ABA president and CEO, updated members on the plan’s progress and high points as the organization lives into its goal of becoming a champion of the baking industry.

“ABA is hyper-focused on strengthening, elevating and expanding our advocacy efforts in Washington, DC, to promote and protect your interests,” Dell said. “This work consistently positions the baking industry to be a strong voice with legislators at all levels of the government, and it’s paying dividends today and into the future.”

The association successfully launched the first Congressional Baking Caucus in late 2024. The bipartisan group is led by Republican Congressman John Joyce, MD (R-PA-13) from Pennsylvania and Democrat Congressman Don G. Davis (D-NC-01) from North Carolina.

The Caucus, which ABA spent more than a year working to organize, created a united effort in Congress, where the industry can share its views on the issues impacting them the most. It also provides an opportunity for bakers to share their priorities with lawmakers on both sides of the political aisle.

“ABA advocacy is not just about party lines,” Dell said. “It’s about working with leaders who understand and support policies that help our industry thrive.”

In the first act as Caucus co-chair, Rep. Joyce introduced the caucus and its work from the House floor, sponsoring a resolution to celebrate bread as a staple of the American diet.