RBA’s attendee forecasts for Marketplace 2005 in Chicago this spring are on track to reach, even exceed, its last Chicago show in 1997, according to the association’s survey of Midwest bakeries in ten states. “Conservatively forecasting attendance from these results indicates that 2,500 to 3,000 bakeries (perhaps as many as 4,000 owners, bakers and decorators) will be at Marketplace this spring,” stated Retail Bakers of America in an association release.

Preparation for this year’s show is in full swing with RBA coordinating efforts with its host affiliate association, CARBA (Chicago Area Retail Bakers Association). Marketplace 2005 will offer a range of new attractions this year. The Iron Baker competition will be held off-site in Kendall College’s brand new Chicago campus. Back by popular demand, RBA bakery tours will take attendees to some of the best bakeries in Chicago. The cake decorating competition also returns, but with a twist. It will be open to the public to help build consumer awareness of the retail baking industry.

For more information about attending RBA’s Marketplace 2005, April 16-18 in Chicago, visit www.rbanet.com.