This year, IBIE brought together more than 1,000 exhibiting companies, including 486 new exhibitors, on a show space spanning 451,100 square feet, up by 9% from 2022. The overall registration was somewhat lower, and fewer professionals attended this year, by 8%, compared with the previous edition. The number of baking companies attending the show, however, grew slightly, by 5%, compared with pre-pandemic levels, the organizer’s post-show report shows.
IBIE Chair Jorge Zarate, global senior vice president of operations and engineering at Grupo Bimbo, acknowledged the realities behind this year’s numbers, noting, “While baker attendance at IBIE was slightly lower — largely reflecting today’s economic pressures and complexities in international travel — we saw strong performance in the number of baking companies participating, many of which chose to send leaner teams to manage costs. Even so, the energy on the show floor and the level of engagement were remarkable, underscoring that IBIE remains an essential event driving progress and continuity for our industry.”
IBIEducate hosted more than 250 sessions and demos and was free to attend for all visitors. This was the biggest education program staged so far at IBIE, its organizers highlight. Hot topics included AI and automation, formulation innovation and scaling SMBs.
IBIE in numbers
- 1,005 exhibitors
- 451,100 sq. ft. space
- 250+ education sessions and demos
- Overall registration was down by 4%
- Bakers’ attendance decreased by 8% compared to 2022
- The number of baking companies represented rose by 5% compared to pre-pandemic levels
- 91% of attendees were purchasing decision-makers or influential in the process
- 96 countries represented, including 27 official delegations
- 28% of the buyers were international, with 74% of those from the Americas — led by Mexico, Canada, Brazil, Guatemala, Colombia, and Peru.
Baking competitions
Coupe du Monde de la Boulangerie — Americas Selection
IBIE hosted international baking teams competing in Bakery, Viennoiserie, and Artistic Bread Showpiece categories. Teams from Brazil, Canada, Ecuador, Mexico, and the US joined the competition. The best two qualified for the final, which will be held in France:
- First Place Winner: Team Canada
- Second Place Winner: Team USA
Panettone World Cup — Americas Selection
Debuting at IBIE 2025, the competition showcased top pastry chefs from across the Western Hemisphere, celebrating the art and heritage of Panettone baking. The winners will advance to the global finals in Milan, Italy:
- Traditional Category Winners:
- Martinez Jaime, USA
- Emmidio Isernia, Canada
- Chocolate Category Winners:
- Flores Torres Wilson, Ecuador
- Vielma Ammary Coromoto, USA
“IBIE 2025 is a powerful reflection of our industry’s energy and strength,” said IBIE Chair Jorge Zarate. “The sense of innovation is unmistakable — seeing professionals from across the industry come together to share ideas, confront challenges, and set new standards for excellence makes this event truly special. I couldn’t be more proud of how our community shows up.”
Allen Wright, IBIE 2025 vice-chair and president of Hansaloy, also shares: “The show floor was buzzing with innovation, meaningful connections, and a true spirit of collaboration — proof that when our industry comes together, we move forward with greater energy and vision. IBIE’s success this year is a testament to the dedication and passion at the heart of the global baking community.”
The next IBIE will be held from September 10 to 13, 2028.
Photos: f2m
