Maintaining traditional European bread baking processes using stone hearth ovens, European/Italian recipes, formulas and old-world flavor, Turano Baking Co., Berwyn, Ill., has been expanding its artisan-quality product line nationally. We celebrate the 50th anniversary of this growing company, which is smoothly transitioning into its third generation of family owned and operated management.

=Whether they’re playing a no-hitter or just making double plays, bakers aren’t sitting on the sidelines—they’re listening to consumers and making improvements to their products. Some are using non-traditional ingredients or taking a more organic approach, while others are focusing on healthful benefits, authenticity and quality. But there’s one thing they all have in common: They have been impacted by the economy and commodity price surges.

Bakers can hit a home run in today’s market by mixing wholesome, healthful ingredients with some new twists of their own to stand out among the competition. But they still must hold their ground when it comes to pricing and discounting. Even if they have a few strikes-outs along the way, bakers are developing new products to keep on making a hit with consumers.

Looks are deceiving at Gabby’s Bagels. The “small” artisan bakery may first appear unassuming, but it has plenty of big programs that keep it ahead of the competition and regulations.