WASHINGTON, D.C. The American Bakers Association is pleased to announce that Todd Hale, Senior Vice President, Consumer & Shopper Insights of The Nielsen Company, will lead off the Morning Business Sessions on March 17 at the 2014 ABA Convention in Scottsdale, Ariz.
In keeping with the 2014 Convention theme, “Thinking Outside the Box to Shape the Future,” Mr. Hale’s presentation will examine why the economic recovery is not as evident in consumer packaged-goods retailing as it is in other markets and how the baking industry can collaborate to accelerate growth. Mr. Hale will draw from more than 33 years of consumer research experience to share his insights on potential factors affecting sales in this category and whether this is a short or long-term issue.
A frequently sought-after industry and client speaker, Mr. Hale uses his knowledge of consumer shopping, buying and media consumption behaviors and attitudes to provide manufacturers and retailers with strategic visions to facilitate brand, category and retail sales growth. He has been with The Nielsen Company for 27 years, where he has held various marketing and sales management positions within advertising/product testing, advanced analytics and consumer panel practice areas. As Senior Vice President, Consumer & Shopping Insights, Mr. Hale is responsible for creating thought leadership content and delivering client and industry presentations. He is often quoted in the press and in numerous trade publications on consumer trends.
“We are thrilled to have Todd return to the ABA Convention,” said Robb MacKie, President and CEO of ABA. “As we keep our eye on innovation at this year’s event, it is imperative that we provide our attendees with a discussion on the state of consumer confidence and its effects on our industry. Todd is just the expert to give us this vital perspective.”
Following Mr. Hale’s presentation, the Morning Business Sessions will feature industry influencers and retail customers analyzing challenges and opportunities in the baking industry. The interactive discussions throughout the convention will focus on how innovation is shaping the industry’s future and how the industry is evolving in response. As the premier annual gathering of the industry’s top leaders — bakers, retailers, suppliers and partner organizations – the ABA Convention will bring together hundreds of these individuals for networking, working sessions and an exchange of ideas. Registration is now open! More information may be found at www.americanbakers.org.
About the American Bakers Association:
The American Bakers Association (ABA) is the Washington D.C.-based voice of the wholesale baking industry. Since 1897, ABA has represented the interests of bakers before the U.S. Congress, federal agencies, and international regulatory authorities. ABA advocates on behalf of more than 700 baking facilities and baking company suppliers. ABA members produce bread, rolls, crackers, bagels, sweet goods, tortillas and many other wholesome, nutritious, baked products for America’s families. The baking industry generates more than $102 billion in economic activity annually and employs more than 633,000 highly skilled people.
Source: American Bakers Association