IBIE 2016 Preview: It’s Time for the Baking Expo!
Taking place October 8-11, IBIE is the biggest, most comprehensive event in the US for the grain-based food industry. Michael Cornelis, IBIE chairman, gave European Baker & Biscuit a look behind the stage of the Baking Expo and industry insights.
By Catalina Mihu
EBB: What are the show features absolutely not to be missed, new and traditionally popular?
MC: We have a number of exciting new show features this year, including the All-American Tailgate Party, which serves as the official event kick-off on the opening night. Held just off the show floor, this event provides an incredible opportunity for networking with colleagues and suppliers from around the globe in a fun, casual atmosphere. For more inspiration, attendees can also listen to “Fresh Take Talks”—20-minute TED Talk-like presentations covering provocative ideas and progressive solutions.
Of course, IBIE wouldn’t be the same without popular returning features such as the B.E.S.T. in Baking Program, which recognizes companies that have made efforts to foster sustainability. Other popular show features include the American Cake Decorating and Revent Demo Stages, The Great American Pie Festival, Innovation Showcase, PMQ’s World Pizza Challenge and the Midwest Culinary and Acrobatic Trials, RBA’s 15th Annual Pillsbury Bakers’ Plus Creative Decorating Competition, RPIA’s Business of Baking for Beginners (BOB), the TIA Technical Conference, and an expanded and comprehensive education program featuring 90+ sessions.
EBB: What are the concepts behind the structure of the educational program, that can help visitors make their optimum selection?
MC: Our education program can be easily broken down into nine targeted tracks: Bread Bakers Guild of America, International, Management, Sales & Marketing, Retail Hands On, Ingredient & Process, Food Safety & Sanitation. Attendees can select the sessions they wish to attend by searching for the track that most closely matches their industry segment. We truly have something for every industry segment and every role within an organization.
EBB: What innovations can you anticipate at the stands this year? Which would be some of the main directions for technology advances?
MC: Innovation has always been our main focus at IBIE. It’s the number one reason that people attend and it’s why exhibitors often plan their new product cycle around the show. It’s difficult to predict exactly what exhibitors will bring to the show; however, IBIE will feature an Innovation Showcase in the lobby where expo-goers can see everything that’s new to the market. There’s a sneak peek of the showcase products and participants on our website, too.
Read the whole interview in European Baker & Biscuit, July/August issue.
Meet our team at IBIE, booth no. 11567! We will be bringing live updates from the show, be sure to check Twitter for the #IBIE2016 mentions.