Dawn Foods has announced that it has officially opened its second annual Sweetest Bakery in America contest for registration, with voting to take place from March 1 until July 31.

This nationwide contest looks to honor the efforts of bakeries everywhere. The winners will be recognized for their efforts and will be awarded incredible prizes. Additionally, they will gain valuable publicity and will have the opportunity to visit the Dawn Innovation Studio.

Last year, Lochel’s Bakery in Hatboro, Pennsylvania won the first-ever Sweetest Bakery in America contest. The competition drew nearly 600,000 votes, with more than 1,400 bakeries in the U.S. and Puerto Rico participating.

The exposure from the contest was a boon to a majority of these bakeries. Nearly 75 percent of participating bakeries experienced an increase in sales during the contest period. The top participating bakeries reported a sales increase of up to 20%.

“We are excited for bakeries to get involved in Dawn Foods' second annual Sweetest Bakery in America competition and celebrate voters’ favorite bakeries across the country,” says Becky Loveland, vice president of marketing for Dawn’s North America business. “As part of our longstanding commitment to helping our customers grow their business, we hope this friendly nationwide competition helps boost sales, drive traffic instore, and makes our customer’s bakeries top of mind for their local communities. Whether you head to your local bakery for your everyday treat or for special occasions, any day is a great day to visit your bakery and vote.”  

In September, Dawn will name the grand prize winner, second and third-place winners, and winners in each state, Washington, D.C., and Puerto Rico. The national winner will receive publicity support for their bakery, a celebration party, and an innovation session to create even more delicious treats for their community. State winners will also receive support from Dawn Foods to help promote their bakeries in their communities.

Bakeries can register for the Sweetest Bakery in America at the contest's website.