The American Bakers Association (ABA) has launched its new Global Supply Chain & Logistics Professionals Group, combining the former Commodity and Agricultural Policy Professionals Group and Logistics Professionals Group into a single, unified forum representing the full baking industry supply chain.

The new group, formed to advance ABA’s Strategic Plan goals, brings together leaders across commodities, procurement, and logistics to address the increasingly complex challenges facing the industry, from agricultural market volatility and global trade dynamics to distribution and regulatory issues.

“By uniting these two critical groups, we are strengthening our ability to address the full scope of supply chain challenges facing the baking industry today,” says Ahmet Hepdogan, SVP of supply chain and procurement for Dawn Food Products, and co-chair of the Global Supply Chain & Logistics Professionals Group. “From ingredient sourcing to delivery of the finished products, this group creates a more coordinated approach to improving efficiency and building resilience across the supply chain.”

The Global Supply Chain & Logistics Professionals Group will focus on key priorities including commodity transportation, market volatility, supply chain alignment, sustainability, and technology innovation. The group will also play a central role in shaping ABA’s advocacy efforts on these pivotal issues with policymakers, including Congress and federal agencies.

“This combined group reflects how interconnected our supply chain truly is,” states Hakim R. Savoy, chief supply chain officer of C.H. Guenther, and co-chair of the Global Supply Chain & Logistics Professionals Group. “Bringing together expertise across agriculture and logistics allows us to better anticipate challenges, develop practical solutions, and ensure baked goods continue to reach consumers safely and reliably.”

According to ABA, its members represent all facets of the supply chain helping to ensure consistent, safe delivery of high-quality baked goods to America’s families. The newly combined group is designed to strengthen that network by enhancing operational efficiency, improving coordination, and ensuring continuity in a rapidly evolving marketplace.

“The formation of this group is a strategic step forward for our industry,” notes Rasma Zvaners, VP of government relations of ABA. “A strong, resilient supply chain is essential to feeding America, and this group will ensure our members have a unified voice in shaping policies and solutions that support long-term success.”

The Global Supply Chain & Logistics Professionals Group is open to all ABA member company employees. The group will meet throughout the year, both in person and virtually, to share insights, inform policy positions, and identify solutions.

Related: ABA expands leadership team to support strategic growth