More Than 170 Baking Professionals Gather in Washington for 2026 Bakers Fly-In
More than 170 baking industry professionals gathered in Washington, DC, for the 2026 Bakers Fly-In and Policy Summit, organized by the American Bakers Association (ABA) in partnership with the Retail Bakers of America and the American Society of Baking. Participants met with policymakers to discuss legislative and regulatory priorities affecting commercial and retail baking.
The event also provided a platform for ABA’s Baking Feeds America campaign, launched earlier this year to highlight the role of commercial baking in the US food system, economy and nutrition. The campaign emphasizes the contribution of baked goods to everyday diets and the industry’s role in supporting jobs and communities across the country.
Policy discussions during the Fly-In covered issues including trade and tariffs, nutrition policy and other regulatory developments affecting baking manufacturers. Ahead of the event, ABA said participants would also encourage lawmakers to engage with the Congressional Baking Caucus and discuss the industry’s priorities directly with congressional offices.
The week also included the Food Technical and Regulatory Affairs Professionals Group Conference, focused on regulatory, food safety and nutrition issues affecting the sector.
Alongside the policy program, more than 45 emerging industry leaders participated in the NextGenBaker Leadership Forum. The program included sessions on strategic foresight, scenario planning and leadership development, led by Marc Palatucci, Director of Growth and Engagement at Future Today Strategy Group.
ABA President and CEO Eric Dell said the Fly-In provides baking companies with an opportunity to communicate the industry’s priorities directly to policymakers and explain its role in the US food system.
