EXHIBITORS, ATTENDEES & MEMBERS THRIVE AT IDDBA 2025

Each year, the IDDBA brings together thousands of buyers, suppliers and innovators across the dairy, deli and bakery industries. At its flagship event, members not only showcase new products but also gain insight into the future of the market – insights increasingly relevant for European bakeries aiming to expand or adapt in a global context.

A record number of attendees from more than 40 countries gathered in New Orleans in June for IDDBA 2025. The event’s success is just one of the ways the IDDBA delivers on its mission to empower and connect its diverse membership of dairy, deli and bakery professionals.

Looking ahead to IDDBA 2026

IDDBA 2026 will take place in Orlando, Florida, from 7-9 June 2026. Organisers anticipate more than 10,000 industry professionals in the dairy, deli, bakery and foodservice sectors to attend or exhibit.

Attendees – more than 80% of whom will be buyers or key decision-makers – will use the opportunity to engage with new products, establish partnerships and learn about the latest industry trends by visiting with more than 900 exhibiting companies.

Whether you’re looking to meet new buyers, explore fresh products and ingredients or stay informed about emerging trends, IDDBA 2026 will provide the opportunity to accomplish all of this in one place.

Beyond the show floor: industry experts and celebrity speakers

Each year, IDDBA hosts a number of engaging speakers, from both within the food industry and beyond. These sessions provide show attendees with opportunities for inspiration, learning and entertainment, offering a welcome break from show floor business and an exciting brush with celebrity.

Speakers from past shows have included José Andrés, Alton Brown, Kevin Costner, Tom Hanks, Padma Lakshmi, Michael Strahan, Carla Hall, Claire Saffitz and Buddy Valastro.

Interactive education: What’s In Store Live

For professionals looking to stay competitive, What’s In Store Live offers an engaging, hands-on opportunity to see first-hand what’s trending and to discover how new innovations could impact business operations.

The program brings together industry experts and member companies to showcase the latest products, technology, packaging and equipment solutions.

Attendees explore the practical applications of emerging trends and technologies, helping them stay informed about the forces shaping the future of the dairy, deli and bakery industries.

Live action: Cake’d and Salumi’d

Cake’d is a live competition that invites show attendees to participate in judging the winners.

In the first round, decorators are challenged to create four different types of cakes, with the added requirement of incorporating two mystery ingredients. For the second round, decorators must make a three-tier cake celebrating IDDBA and the host city of the show. Two winners are chosen – one by popular attendee vote, and one by a panel of expert judges.

Taking place in front of a live, active audience, Salumi’d is the premier showcase for IDDBA-certified Salumiere Professionals who want to share their passion, skills and knowledge while celebrating the art of crafting charcuterie boards. Taking place on the first and second day of IDDBA at the What’s in Store Live stage, charcuterie professionals compose visually stunning and palate-pleasing charcuterie boards to be displayed and enjoyed throughout the show.

The value of IDDBA Membership

The IDDBA annual trade show is just one example of how the association provides opportunities for industry professionals to network, learn and grow.

Membership in IDDBA unlocks a wide range of resources designed to support businesses of all sizes, 365 days a year. Members gain access to key industry events, such as the annual trade show, as well as digital platforms that deliver up-to-date market trends, data and research all year round. The association also offers educational programs aimed at improving customer satisfaction, employee retention and overall business performance.

Whether through direct access to decision-makers or by utilising the association’s educational tools and resources, IDDBA members are equipped to improve operations, grow business and advance professionally.

Conclusion

For bakeries and ingredient suppliers, IDDBA offers a rare combination: direct access to North American buyers and suppliers; a showcase of bakery innovation; and resources to strengthen business performance year-round. Whether through networking, education or industry insights, IDDBA membership and participation in its annual show are strategic investments for bakeries and other suppliers aiming to grow in an increasingly competitive global marketplace.