PALM SPRINGS, CA — After three years apart, the American Bakers Association (ABA) held its first in-person annual convention since 2019, just in time to celebrate the organization’s 125th Anniversary.
The industry joined ABA to “Celebrate Bakery” — the convention’s theme — March 26-30 in Palm Springs. The event opened with a reflection on changes that have impacted the industry throughout the association’s history, and it closed with a gala celebrating the milestone.
For more than a century, ABA has supported the industry through economic challenges, world wars and a host of other global issues, not to mention the pandemic and supply chain disruption.
It has also supported changes such as evolving consumer needs and fast-paced demands, product diversity, and supplier and bakery consolidation.
Through it all, ABA has been a centrifuge for bakers to set aside differences and work together to move the industry forward.
“We have a rich history of representing the wholesale bakers and their suppliers,” said Lee Sanders, senior VP of government relations and public affairs for ABA. “So, even though our members may be fierce competitors, when they come to the ABA table, they roll up their sleeves and think about policies and building consensus for the entire industry.”
This attitude is indicative of commercial bakers, who are willing to connect for the common purpose of feeding American families.
“What makes ABA so effective is that we know we have our members behind us,” Sanders said. “And all the efforts we pursue on bakers’ behalf, we know we have their support behind us.”
With such a heavy emphasis on government affairs and education, the association sees itself as more than an industry partner; ABA is an extension of the bakery team.
“We are not only an extension of our members’ company; we are also an extension of their family,” said Robb MacKie, ABA president and CEO.
Brad Alexander, COO of Thomasville, GA-based Flowers Foods and 2020-2022 board chair, celebrated the 125th Anniversary with the close of his term as chair.
“I’m honored to be part of an industry that can stand here celebrating 125 years of feeding communities,” Alexander said. “What a special business we are in.”
Several ABA member companies will celebrate milestone anniversaries this year, including Leidenheimer Baking Co., Schulze & Burch Biscuit Co., Merieux NutriSciences and Rabobank, all of which are also celebrating 125 years in business.
