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As we live in a digital era, with access to information one clicks away, attending in-person industry events like trade shows or baking expos are great opportunities to network, build new relationships and see firsthand what’s new on the market.
It also allows you to keep up with current trends as well as learn the latest decorating skills from professionals in the baking industry.
For this post, we will discuss why it is important to attend trade shows as a home-based baker.
Baking Trade Show Financial Investment
Attending or having a booth at a baking trade show or expo is never cheap and you may need to factor in a few fees for the booth or traveling expenses as well as equipment costs before attending.
You want to start with the basics and first understand how you can make the best out of this experience. When we attended our first baking expo a few things ran through our minds:
Who will be in attendance?
Colette Peters | Colette’s Cakes
What companies will be represented at this expo?
What kind of samples will be on display?
What type of techniques/skills was being taught during
Are there any competitions going on?
Did I want to become a contestant in a competition?
Distance from home to the expo is it too far?
Why Choose to Be A Spectator
These questions were very important as they help us consider, how we wanted our company to be represented at the trade show. Did we want to be a
Since it was our first time ever attending one of these trade shows, we thought it would be best to be a spectator for now and see how things worked. In order, to possibly take on a bigger role the next time the expo was in town.
How Can I Find Baking Trade Show?
Baking trade shows and Expos can be found throughout the United States and internationally.
There are a few websites dedicated to listing the various exhibits and
One of the biggest trade shows will be coming to Las Vegas in September, The international baking industry exposition IBIE is one of the world’s largest and most comprehensive baking trade fairs.
Exhibitors will showcase cutting-edge technologies, equipment,
To get discounts at these shows it’s a good idea to look into your local Bakers Association or Retail Bakers of America. These are valuable resources that are located in your area that you may want to take advantage of.
What is a Bakers Association?
As you all know we live in New York City. Our state chapter is The New York State Bakers Association which is a trade organization that has been servicing bakery owners and affiliated allied trade companies, since 1897.
There also is a local Brooklyn Bakers Association. These associates provide scholarships and a way to connect to local bakeries and afflicted companies near you.
The advantage of joining your local associations is they also provide workshops and hands-on demonstrations if you are unable to travel internationally or nationwide for trade shows and expos.
However, they do require membership or a guest fee to attend these events. If you are not willing to join as a member sign up for their newsletter. It’s free and a good way to keep track of upcoming baking events.
What Did We Take Away from Our First Baking Trade Shows?
Small companies can be represented at these events. You must first understand your position and how you want to be portrayed.
Expos are a great way to show off your skills as you can participate as a novice or an
Take advantage and sign up for classes that will advance your business through skills and techniques or learn more about manufacturing and wholesaling.
Expos/Trade shows give you an opportunity to approach new trends firsthand as well as experience and meet new individuals along the way. Be sure to carry your business cards or digital cards with you as they are vital to networking.
I know, it came in handy as we gave out a lot of cards and connected with a few bakers via social media.
Final Note
Attending baking trade shows and expos can be incredibly beneficial for bakers looking to take their skills and business to the next level.
By networking with other professionals, discovering new products and trends, attending educational seminars and workshops, and growing your business, you’ll be able to gain valuable insights and experiences that can help you make money baking.
Whether you’re just starting out or have been in the industry for years, attending baking trade shows and expos is a worthwhile investment that can pay off in spades.
So why not mark your calendar and plan to attend the next event in your area? You’ll be glad you did!
We hope you enjoyed this blog, we are excited to hear about your experience drop a comment if you found this post helpful.
Until next time Happy Caking!
I am truly driven by what I create and bring the knowledge of what I have learned throughout the years to help other bakers turn a hobby into a new venture. I hope you find this blog warm and inviting as my goal is to fill it with delicious treats and awesome recipes.
