BakingTECH 2026 Chicago: Takeaways from the Spiromatic Team

BakingTECH 2026 took place February 16–19 at the Sheraton Grand Chicago Riverwalk, organized by the American Society of Baking (ASB). As Area Sales Manager at Spiromatic, I attended to stay at the forefront of the grain-based food and baking industry. And it delivered on every front.

Here are some of the biggest benefits I walked away with.

Actionable Technical Insights for Bakery Professionals

The sessions on BakingTECH 2026 went deep into practical solutions for today’s challenges: updated preventive controls (PCQI 2.0), sensory evaluation techniques, and innovations in automation, sustainability, product development, and food safety. Exactly the kind of content that moves both day-to-day operations and long-term strategy forward.

1,000+ Industry Professionals Under One Roof

Bakeries, ingredient suppliers, equipment manufacturers. The full industry was in one place and the networking was incredible. From the Young Professionals’ Networking Event to Formulation Floor (MarketPlace) interactions, I made valuable new connections, reconnected with industry peers, and exchanged real-world ideas that no email or video call can replicate.

Emerging Trends Shaping the Future of Baking

From AI applications and allergen management to new protein offerings, the content sparked genuine fresh thinking. Hearing directly from experts in baking science and business left me better equipped to drive innovation.

Grateful to the ASB team for such a high-quality event that lives up to its reputation.

David Wall

Area Sales Manager, Spiromatic