On Sunday, March 26, 2017, the American Bakers Association’s annual convention will commence in Boca Raton, Florida. The theme of this year’s event is “Stronger Together” and will celebrate the bright future of the baking industry as well as the collaboration, learning, and idea-sharing that helps to advance the industry.

“ABA is fortunate to have a membership that recognizes the importance of engagement and joining their peers at the table to address the issues impacting the industry as well as to learn from one another. The annual convention provides a valuable forum for these interactions,” says ABA President and CEO Robb MacKie.

Of special note this year is the potential merger between the ABA and the Biscuit and Cracker Manufacturers’ Association (B&CMA). A vote will take place during the March 26 meeting to decide on the merger. The B&CMA 114th Annual Convention is co-located with the 2017 ABA Convention, presenting an opportunity for a merger signing ceremony during the All Membership Meeting if approval from each organization’s membership is received.

Industry executives will provide insight on driving industry growth through shopper-centric retailing. Jean-Michel Fally, principal with Deloitte Consulting, and Win Weber, chairman and chief executive officer of Winston Weber & Associates, will present “Jump starting bakery sales: evolving from category management to new shopper-centric retailing.”

The executives will identify what bakers need to know to position themselves to take advantage of the evolution away from the category management model. Additionally, they will review the key components of shopper-centric retailing, the advanced shopper solutions planning process, retailer operational changes and the implications for bakers as a key retail supplier.

Additionally, former White House Press Secretary Dana Perino will deliver the keynote address at the American Bakers Political Action Committee dinner on Monday, March 27. She will offer a “behind-the-scenes understanding of media and messaging in today’s political climate” and share the “strategies, tactics and mindset necessary to present a convincing and attractive face to customers and the American public.”