Editorial
The end of a turbulent and trying year is in sight, and many will be eager to bid farewell to 2009 and welcome 2010, a year that has been touted for some time to be a significant turning point in the economy and in the history of our country.
In this edition, as a fitting reflection on the challenges of the year, and those awaiting in the new year, we revisit many of the topics that have remained “hot” despite the market and economic changes. These include the critical need for training, the international influences on the local market and the many opportunities that exist for bakers who are proactive and well-informed.
Training remains a major issue and this article takes a look at just how far-reaching the consequences of a lack of training and skills can be in a bakery. Our article covering international influences and research and development highlights the vital importance of keeping a finger on the pulse of international and local trends and pursuing constant innovation.
We also take a look at the Cookies and Biscuits market to reveal a host of opportunities for bakers, and in our Small Baker’s section, we offer some excellent tips on turning plain cookies into an irresistible range of delights. In the spirit of Christmas, we also look at some novel ideas for mince pies.
While the “green shoots” of economic recovery are certainly visible everywhere, cost savings and prudent management remain vital to business success.
Our new Grains and Milling section is growing strongly and we invite industry players to share their news, views and opinions with us.
In January we will be publishing The Baker Buyer’s
Guide which remains a must-have for every player
in the industry. In the meantime, visit the website
www.thebaker.co.za over the quieter holiday season to discover a world of information and knowledge.
With this last bumper edition for 2009 in your hands, we would like to take this opportunity to thank our readers, our editorial contributors and our advertisers for their loyal support over the year. We also wish you a joyful festive season and a prosperous 2010! Until next time!
Happy Baking!
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Letters to the editor:
The Baker, PO Box 130676,
Bryanston, 2021 or
E-mail: newstr1@mweb.co.za |
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Inside Track
Our snippets on movers and shakers in the baking/confectionery and related industries include:
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New flavour sensation |
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Tiger Brands takes the hassle
out of healthy shopping |
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New natural ingredients giant gives SA access to wide range of products |
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South African cheeses awarded |
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Sugar price sky-high |
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Accolades for Nampak |
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Combating crime |
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DSM Food Specialties springs to natural emusification challenge |
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SIAB International Techno-Bake Exhibition |
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Provita launches new biscuit range |
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Propak Africa 2009 |
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Handwashing World Record |
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Successful Anuga |
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iba once again a powerhouse for the sector |
Read more...
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