Meet BoB. BoB is your friend and as your friend, he’s going to do you a huge favor and share the perfect recipe for starting, owning and operating your own baking business.

So, who or what is BoB? BoB is the Business of Baking for Beginners Seminar that will teach effective tricks of the trade and behind-the-scenes knowledge that only comes with extensive years of experience.

Taught by vetted pros of the industry, the seminar is designed for aspiring bakers who are looking at entering the baking industry, as well as people in their first three years in the industry. The seminar will give them skill sets that will help them thrive, not just survive.

“I wish somebody could have helped us in the beginning.” Larry Merritt, bakery owner and founding member of The RPIA Group, said, “It was just plain hard – too many long days for too little money and costly mistakes! We need to try and make a difference for the new folks in the industry,” he said.

The Business of Baking for Beginners Seminar takes place on October 1 - 2, 2011 before the All Thing Baking 2011 Conference & Exposition October 2 - 4, both held in Schaumburg, Illinois.

Seating is limited, and a sellout is expected, so signing up soon is important. More information and registration can be found on the website www.BusinessofBakingNow.com.

The ALL Thing Baking Show (http://www.allthingsbaking.org) is the perfect follow-up to the BoB seminar and will polish the education experience. Since Schaumburg is only 7 miles from O’Hare Airport (ORD), this can be done in a few short days.

BoB is being held by the industry-savvy baking veterans of the RPIA Group. Celebrating their 10th year, RPIA Group is an assembly of progressive bakers that: relate as a peer group; share buying power to lower costs; enjoy rebates; and help with learning curves.

During the seminar certified Master Bakers (CMBs) from around the nation will impart knowledge worth tens of thousands of dollars to entrepreneurs who want to explore joining the baking industry; or those looking to enhance their baking business.

At the two-day Business of Baking for Beginners Seminar, industry experts will provide key secrets on topics including:

"In the baking industry, the mistakes made during the first two years can mean the difference between success and failure,” Rick Crawford said, co-founder of RPIA Group. “Our presenters will bring a specific knowledge and expertise that will help attendees shorten their learning curve.”

“Coaching is a key, even companies that have been around for 30 years need fresh, honest eyes,” Crawford said.

Founded in 2001, RPIA Group has become a virtual co-op that empowers its members not only in purchasing power, but in intellectual pursuits. By uniting retail bakers, RPIA has been able to capitalize on the concentrated buying power represented by its members. RPIA offers more than purchasing programs. Since each member has their own experience and expertise, RPIA shares intellectual property as well. As a result, the RPIA Group is increasing growth, development and profitability for its membership by sharing and seeking innovative opportunities and strategies.

Currently, membership in RPIA is limited to retail bakers whose annual revenues are more the $1 million. In addition, members commit to paying all invoices within 30 days of receipt. In ten short years, the RPIA Group has grown from five to 95 plus members. For information about the RPIA Group visit www.rpiausa.org or contact Rick Crawford via phone at (800) 921-6108 or via email at rick.crawford@rpiausa.org.