The International Dairy Deli Bakery Association (IDDBA) annual trade show drew 11,000 attendees and 1,019 exhibiting companies — a new record for IDDBA—including 195 first-time exhibitors showcasing innovative products, packaging, and technology.

"I am incredibly proud of the IDDBA team, our partners, and our volunteers for delivering a truly record-breaking show this year,” said Chris Schwass, Acting CEO. “We also achieved our largest and most innovative show floor to date, spanning a sprawling quarter of a million square feet. This incredible achievement is a testament to the power of our community, and I want to thank everyone involved for making this an outstanding success."

General Session speakers at the event, which took place June 7 to June 9 in Orlando, Fla., included Coach Mike Krzyzewski (Coach K), Alton Brown, and Trevor Noah, who shared insights on leadership, creativity, and personal growth. Attendees also heard a special industry trends presentation from Anne-Marie Roerink, President of 210 Analytics, offering valuable data and analysis on the evolving food marketplace.

Throughout the show, attendees explored immersive experiences designed to inspire new ideas and showcase emerging trends. What’s in Store Live once again brought IDDBA’s annual trends to life through engaging displays, educational workshop content, and innovative exhibitor products. This year’s merchandising experience featured a Ditsch Pretzel Machine, demonstrating a contactless delivery system capable of serving fresh pretzel bites and pretzel pizzas directly to consumers. Attendees witnessed the trends launched earlier this year in the What’s in Store publication brought to life, and those insights and takeaways can be explored in greater detail here.

 An attendee-favorite attraction returned to the show floor this year as an all-star team of industry decorators unveiled Cakescape, a large-scale cake art installation themed “International Picnic.” Created live during the event, the exhibit showcased the artistry and creativity of cake decorating professionals and was officially revealed ahead of the Monday Night Party.

This year’s Champions of Change Awards recognized 31 industry leaders from the retailer/wholesaler and supplier/vendor communities who consistently demonstrate excellence and superior results. The Legacy of Excellence Award, which honors a legendary Champion of Change whose career exemplifies innovation, leadership, and community impact, was presented to Anne Marie Cadrin Garrard of Circle K for her significant contributions to modernizing bakery and foodservice programs.

The annual Cake’d competition once again highlighted exceptional decorating talent from across the industry. Debbie Spies of LoveCakes by Dorothy Lane Market earned the title of 2026 Cake’d Grand Champion for her outstanding creativity, technical skill, and execution.

 The industry’s commitment to giving back was also on display through the annual post-show food drive. Thanks to the generosity of exhibitors and volunteers, 140,575 pounds of dairy, deli, bakery, and foodservice products were donated to local food banks throughout Central Florida. Facilitated by Second Harvest Food Bank of Central Florida, these donations will help provide meals and support to families throughout the region.

  Planning is already underway for next year’s event. IDDBA 2027 will take place June 6 to 8 in Atlanta.