Every year it seems there is more to do and more going on than ever before: 2010 will be no different. At work, in the industry and around the world, we are on a fast track toward the future. Although the baking industry is never one to lead the overall technology boom, it appears to be stepping up its pace, as are we.

With this issue of Baking & Snack, you will see subtle changes and tweaks to its design that enhance readability and allow you to quickly get in and get out of the magazine with the information you need to improve your knowledge and job performance. Case studies on processing and packaging equipment and unique applications on ingredients offer practical editorial messages. Guest columnists and expert interviews will add unique insight on management issues.

Our regular columnists Jim Kline, Theresa Cogswell and Anne Giesecke will continue to provide their expert perspective on engineering, R&D and legislative issues affecting the industry. Their insight will be even more crucial this year as foretold by the trends revealed in the 2010 Capital Spending survey results.

Although capital spending survey results project only modest gains, there is building anticipation that activities this year will lead to significant increases in capital projects in 2011. Key trends include new product innovations and plant efficiency.

On the digital side of the magazine, you may have already noticed a completely new design to our family of Web sites. The homepage and subsequent landing sites at www.bakingbusiness.com offer easier navigation and more practical organization to the plethora of content. Take a few minutes to acquaint yourself with its features.

For the industry, 2010 is of course an IBIE year, and anticipation is high. The Expo returns to Las Vegas after a less-than-optimum Orlando show. Capital spending will be on the minds of most attendees as they prepare for 2011, and ingredient suppliers pushing innovative capabilities will be strong. Baking & Snack editors along with our Sosland colleagues will once again present our triennial special edition in August that will include our editorial roundtable and a series of articles on trends and technology to help attendees prepare for the show. We are also producing the official IBIE Directory — Allieds, be sure to submit your information promptly. And we will again produce the official IBIE Dailies — tabloid-size issues written and produced at the show for the first three days.

New this year at IBIE will be our extended use of video and other electronic media. Sosland editors are now masters of print, photography and video. Use of varied media allows attendees complete and thorough information.

From an equipment supplier’s perspective, 2010 could be as challenging as last. From the baker’s outlook, it will be very exciting yet fast paced to achieve innovation and speed to market.

We look forward to being a part of these activities and reporting on all aspects of the industry. We always appreciate hearing from you. Keep in touch with us through e-mail, LinkedIn or Twitter.

— Steve Berne, editor

sberne@sosland.com

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