North American Baking Associations Sign Strategic Cooperation Agreement

The American Bakers Association (ABA), Retail Bakers of America (RBA) and the Baking Association of Canada (BAC) have signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) to explore closer strategic cooperation across the North American baking sector.

Announced on 9 March 2026, the agreement aims to strengthen collaboration between the three organisations while supporting their shared objective of advancing the baking industry in the United States and Canada.

Under the proposed framework, the associations will examine opportunities to expand cross-border collaboration, increase member engagement and enhance participation in each organisation’s events and programmes. The initiative is intended to support both retail and industrial baking sectors by facilitating knowledge sharing, advocacy efforts and industry visibility.

Each organisation will remain independently governed and managed, while identifying areas where cooperation could create synergies and strengthen industry representation across the region. The partners expect to further refine the agreement during the second quarter of 2026.

Eric Dell, president and CEO of the American Bakers Association, said the partnership comes at a time when the industry faces increasing regulatory pressures and changing consumer expectations.

“At a time when the industry is facing headwinds from increased government activity and rapidly changing consumer preferences, this strategic relationship is more important than ever. It represents a significant step forward for the entire North American baking industry and supports ABA’s strategic plan,” said Eric Dell, ABA President and CEO. “ABA has had the pleasure of working with BAC on advocacy initiatives over many years and by strengthening this collaboration we are creating new opportunities to advance shared priorities, elevate the industry’s advocacy impact, and ensure the baking community is positioned for long-term growth across the United States and Canada.”

Marissa Sertich, executive director of the Retail Bakers of America, added that the initiative would help ensure retail bakeries remain well represented through greater knowledge sharing, professional development and business education.

Martin Barnett, executive director and general manager of the Baking Association of Canada, said the partnership builds on longstanding cooperation between the organisations and will strengthen support for bakers throughout North America.

The organisations said the strategic relationship is intended to enhance services for members while reinforcing industry collaboration across the region.