IBIE welcomes RBA as new partner for 2010

March 3, 2009, CHICAGO – The theme for the 2010 International Baking Industry Exposition (IBIE), “Where the Industry Unites,” became even more fitting today with the news that the Retail Bakers of America (RBA) will become a new strategic partner of the triennial show.

As part of the agreement, RBA will not hold its standalone event, the American Retail Bakery Exposition, in 2010.

Partnership talks began as the result of a strategic planning session conducted in 2008. The IBIE committee examined opportunities to unify the baking industry and strengthen its show through strategic alliances with related exhibitions. This new relationship will enhance value and benefits to both attendees and exhibitors.

IBIE committee chairman Rich Hoskins commented, “The IBIE committee reached out to RBA to discuss a partnership that would be mutually beneficial and would contribute to the overall well-being of our industry. This agreement is a huge step toward achieving IBIE’s position as the one event that brings the entire grain-based foods industry together and further proof that IBIE is dedicated to meeting the ever-changing needs of our industry.”
 
RBA president Lynn Schurman agreed, adding, “RBA has supported and participated in IBIE for many years and will increase that commitment in 2010. Our board unanimously concluded that joining forces with IBIE next year is the most efficient and effective way to give retail bakers the relevant education and comprehensive resources that they need to be successful in today’s marketplace.” 
 
While definitive details of the agreement are being finalized, it was announced that RBA exhibitors will be integrated into the IBIE show floor, rather than placed in a separate hall or pavilion. RBA will continue to provide demos and education on the show floor and a targeted marketing campaign will be utilized to attract more retail bakers to the show. Additionally, RBA will continue to hold ARBE in non-IBIE years.