The American Bakers Association (ABA) and Retail Bakers of America (RBA) have agreed to a Letter of Intent (LOI) that begins affiliation discussions as part of their shared mission to strengthen the baking industry. 

The associations’ executive leadership will finalize details of an affiliate structure between the two organizations. “This affiliation will protect the unique value of both entities for their respective members, with each association continuing to be managed and governed separately, while identifying opportunities to create synergies that grow both the commercial and retail baking sectors,” they said in a statement. The process should be finalized in Q2 2026, they anticipate.  

“This will build upon RBA’s already close working relationship with ABA and strengthen our respective membership value propositions and organizational structures in support of each association’s strategic plans,” said Eric Dell, ABA President and CEO. “This will provide RBA with operational efficiencies and support as well as create a unified voice with ABA on advocacy issues important to the baking industry. I’m most excited about the ability to keep RBA’s unique and valuable brand identity while also providing increased membership engagement and value for RBA members.” 

“It’s a good day for the baking industry. We are excited to continue implementing the strategic goals set by the ABA and RBA Boards in this new structure,” said Marissa Sertich Velie, RBA Executive Director. “This will support growth of both the retail and commercial baking sectors by bringing both organizations closer and using the broader industry’s resources more strategically and efficiently. Specifically, this will strengthen advocacy work on behalf of the industry, which is more important now than ever. In short, this is solely about supporting and growing the baking industry.” 

This new strategic relationship will allow both RBA and ABA to deliver enhanced value propositions for their respective memberships and identify new opportunities to position the retail and commercial baking sectors for long-term growth and success.  

“By aligning our strengths while preserving RBA’s respected brand and expertise, we continue to elevate the service to our members, amplify the industry’s collective advocacy, and accelerate our shared mission to grow and advance the entire baking community,” said Bill Quigg, ABA Chair and President of Richmond Baking. “Together, we bolster these two organizations to be even more connected, efficient, and impactful.” 

“The baking industry is deeply ingrained in the fabric of our society,” said Amie Smith, RBA President and Owner of AMIE Bakery. “Independently, RBA and ABA bring significant value to their members, but together that value increases exponentially and helps drive the changes our industry needs. RBA provides a unique education component to the baking business and deep insight into issues impacting both large-scale commercial bakers and small retail bakeries across the nation, while ABA serves as a powerful conduit for advocacy to help the baking industry thrive. Each organization’s strengths complement the other, and by joining forces, our industry is poised for growth. 

About the American Bakers Association   

The American Bakers Association (ABA) is the largest trade association for the commercial baking industry in the US, with more than 350 member companies representing over 1,200 commercial baking facilities and the extensive industry supply chain. It was founded in 1897.  

About Retail Bakers of America 

The Retail Bakers of America (RBA) is the national membership-based nonprofit organization dedicated to supporting and advancing the retail baking industry. RBA connects, educates, and supports bakery owners, educators, students, and industry partners through activities including professional education and nationally recognized certification programs.

Photo: ABA