Key Business Outlooks For 2025: Joe Pocevicius, Reading Bakery Systems
Our priorities for 2025 include expanding automation solutions, providing advanced training for our customers’ teams, and strengthening our aftermarket parts and service offerings to ensure comprehensive customer support.
As we step into 2025, the baking industry is evolving at an unprecedented pace, driven by shifting consumer preferences, sustainability demands, and technological advancements. To gain a clearer picture of what lies ahead, we spoke with industry leaders, from large-scale manufacturers, ingredient suppliers, and technology innovators to professional associations that push the industry’s objectives on the public agenda.
In this special section, experts share their perspectives on the biggest trends shaping the market—from the growing demand for clean-label and plant-based products to innovations in precision fermentation, upcycled ingredients, and AI-driven production processes. They discuss how economic pressures, supply chain challenges, and sustainability goals are reshaping business strategies and what opportunities lie ahead for bakeries of all sizes.
Will 2025 be the year of functional baked goods? How will automation and digitalization continue to transform operations? And what role will climate-conscious sourcing play in consumer decision-making? Our panel of industry insiders weighs in on these critical questions, offering valuable insights to help businesses navigate the evolving landscape.
Read on for exclusive interviews with the visionaries shaping the future of baking.
Joe Pocevicius, Sales Director – EMEA & APAC, Reading Bakery Systems
Considering market volatility, supply chain disruptions, energy costs, and workforce challenges, how would you assess your company’s performance over the past year?
This year, we saw notable improvements in addressing these challenges, which enabled us to achieve solid performance and consistent growth. By strategically managing supply chain complexities, focusing on energy efficiency, and investing in workforce development, we maintained flexibility and delivered strong results for our customers.
What are your expectations for 2025, taking into account the lingering impacts of 2024 and the evolving market dynamics?
We anticipate a slowdown in certain areas due to geopolitical instability and shifting market dynamics, particularly in the United States. However, with two major trade shows on our calendar, we expect to stay engaged with our customers and industry partners. These events will help us showcase our capabilities and strengthen our relationships, ensuring sustained growth despite the broader market challenges.
How do you foresee the global and regional bakery markets evolving, and what are your company’s top priorities for 2025?
We expect a continued emphasis on automation and workforce training. These areas are critical for addressing labor shortages and enhancing production efficiency. Our priorities for 2025 include expanding automation solutions, providing advanced training for our customers’ teams, and strengthening our aftermarket parts and service offerings to ensure comprehensive customer support.
What have been your primary growth drivers over the past year, and what is the most significant lesson you’ve learned in managing your operations?
Our primary growth drivers have been our focus on innovative technology, customer-centric service, and our ability to adapt to market changes swiftly. A key lesson we’ve learned is the importance of proactive communication and collaboration with both suppliers and customers. This approach has helped us navigate disruptions effectively while staying aligned with evolving customer needs.