Bradley Beach, NJ:
The Cookware and Bakeware Alliance (CBA) held its 102nd Spring Member Meeting, themed "Uniting the Industry," in sunny Orlando, FL in April. This hybrid meeting brought together members from the cookware and bakeware industry, offering a platform for insightful discussions, presentations, and valuable networking opportunities. A significant highlight from this gathering was the announcement of the new CBA board leadership.
The CBA introduced Mike Otterman from Lodge Cast Iron as the President, and Chris Bauman from Le Creuset as the Vice President. They also welcomed new board members: Nancy McHenry (Widgeteer Inc), and Mike Maguire (ILAG Coatings). The following board members will be continuing their service for another term: Mars Mashburn (Tramontina), Phil Barberi (Meyer Corporation US), Mark Eichorn (Anchor Hocking).
The event also celebrated past president Doug Reigle from Regal Ware and past board member Gene Karlson from Nordic Ware for their invaluable contributions to the industry.
The conference kicked off with a welcome note from the Board President, followed by a report of significant actions from the Board Meeting and a Headquarters Report. This was followed by a presentation on US Homewares Consumer Trends by Catalina Flores from Euromonitor.
The afternoon session commenced with a "Meet our Members Session" and a fireside chat with Mary Ann Knaus from Aquarius Group LLC discussing Amazon Best Practices.
On the second day of the conference, members were addressed by the new board president, who provided a “Look Ahead” on the industry and important opportunities for the Alliance. The day was filled with presentations from industry experts, including an International Housewares Association (IHA) Update from Derek Miller and Peter Giannetti, a US Legislation Update from Tom Lee of BCLP Law, and a Color Trend Forecast for Cookware by Vanessa Peterson from PPG.
The meeting concluded with updates from the Engineering committee and its subcommittees: PFAS Advocacy & Education, Sustainability, Standards Review, as well as the Expertise, Education, and Engagement committees. A new Engineering subcommittee is being formed to address Lead & Cadmium Advocacy & Education.
The 102nd Spring Member Meeting was an opportunity for members of the cookware and bakeware industry to collaborate, share knowledge, and contribute to shaping the future of the industry. With the new leadership in place, the CBA is poised to unite the industry and foster growth and innovation.
About The Cookware & Bakeware Alliance (CBA)
The Cookware & Bakeware Alliance is recognized as a leader in developing and communicating product safety standards and innovative solutions for the cooking and baking industry*.* For more information about the Alliance, its upcoming events, and how to become a member, visithttps://cookwareandbakeware.org/.
Media Contact:
Gayla Scrivener
PR Support Team
The Cookware & Bakeware Alliance
support@cookware.org