From 8 to 11 October, the 2016 International Baking Industry Exposition (IBIE) was held at the Las Vegas Convention Center. This has been the largest event in its history, with over 1,000 exhibitors (28% more than in 2013) in a more than 700,000 square meter exposition area and more than 23,000 attendees, 9% more than in 2013 and an astounding 65 percent increase over the last decade.

The organization attributes much of this growth to the international market, since 30% of the public came from more than 100 countries. The final assessment could not be more positive. “The quality and depth of IBIE’s attendees, exhibitors and education sessions was incredible,” said Michael J. Cornelis, Chair of IBIE. “IBIE is continually evolving and growing to meet the needs of baking industry professionals, as well as the trends in the industry, and this year we saw a record-breaking show with the largest show floor, number of exhibitors, innovation showcase, and education program in IBIE’s history “.

There are many activities that are new this year and sparked the interest of those present. Among them, Fresh Take Talks of opinion leaders on consumer trends, nutrition and industry; the Innovation Spotlight Theater which provided a forum for exhibitors to do live demonstrations of their main innovations; an educational program with more than 90 sessions, designed for professionals of all levels and backgrounds, highlighted the latest techniques and proven strategies for streamlining wholesale operations, improving product quality and increasing profits, or the Satin Ice Live Challenge competition, where six teams had to build and decorate q fairytale-themed cake in just six hours.

IBIE also awarded 50 bakeries and industry suppliers the third annual B.E.S.T. Baking award for having a positive impact on the environment.

The next edition will take place in Las Vegas in 2019, the specific dates will soon be known.