The American Bakers Association is proud to announce former Wal-Mart President and CEO and current Chairman of the Executive Committee Lee Scott will be the featured retail speaker at the 2011 ABA Convention March 26-30 in San Antonio, Texas.

“Convention attendees will have the unique opportunity to hear from the global retail leader, whose actions on food retailing, sustainability and nutrition impact customers, competitors and bakers alike. We are thrilled to have a leader of such caliber participating in our event,” said ABA President and CEO Robb MacKie. “His sharing of his experiences and strategies developed over a 30 plus year leader at Wal-Mart will be invaluable to the baking industry’s leaders gathered at this important industry event.”

During Mr. Scott’s tenure as Wal-Mart’s president and CEO, the company emerged as the world’s largest retailer with more than 2 million associates, serving customers and members more than 200 million times per week. Under his leadership, Wal-Mart significantly expanded its focus on food sales, including baked goods. Mr. Scott continues to serve as the chairman of the Wal-Mart Executive Committee.

2011 ABA Convention attendees will be able to participate in a frank and open interview with Lee Scott. “The baking industry will have a unique opportunity to hear directly from one of only four individuals to serve as head of Wal-Mart,” MacKie continued. “We are looking forward to learning more about the strategy behind Wal-Mart’s dramatic growth and emergence as not only a food retail leader but a leader on corporate responsibility for the environment.”

The 2011 ABA Convention promises to be the premier industry event of the year. The theme of “Enriching Bodies and Lives” is a celebration of the enrichment the baking industry provides the country. The ABA Convention will bring together hundreds of leaders from America’s baking businesses and their suppliers for five days of networking, idea exchange, and working sessions. Registration is open through Feb. 25, 2011, and is open to both members and prospective members. More information may be found at www.americanbakers.org.