M&A

American Bakers Association merges with Biscuits and Cracker Manufacturer’s Association

04-Jul-2017 - Last updated on 03-Nov-2017 at 20:53 GMT

ABA will add 116 additional members to its list upon the merger with B&CMA. Pic: ©iStock/SherSor

The American Bakers Association (ABA) has added 116 Biscuits and Cracker Manufacturers’ Association (B&CMA) companies to its membership list after the merger between the two organizations came into effect on July 1, 2017.

The newly-merged ABA said it now offers the baking industry an “even stronger advocate for its interests.

“[We] offer advocacy for regulatory and legislative issues that impact companies’ bottom lines; committees to shape interactions with policymakers; and set the course for the industry,” it said.

The press statement also reported that the three B&CMA members have joined the new ABA team, including Dave Van Laar as senior advisor to the president; Kathy Kinter Phelps as assistant director of education & membership; and Vanessa Vial as manager of eLearning & communications.

Cookie & Cracker Academy

The Cookie & Cracker Academy (CCA), previously known as B&CMA University, was formed as a result of the merger.

The CCA will train cookie and cracker manufacturing professionals across the board, including new employees to the bakery industry as well as individuals seeking an advanced understanding of the complete manufacturing process, ABA said.

ABA recently applauded the FDA for delaying the nutrition facts label rule.