MINNEAPOLIS (Oct. 11, 2006) – Bakery operators do it all. They are not only proficient bakers, but also sophisticated business owners and operators. Their busy schedules, however, often leave them with little time to focus on continuous improvement. To help cultivate the technical baking skills and business savvy for a new generation of bakers, General Mills Bakeries & Foodservice introduces the Pillsbury Bakery Institute, bringing technical expertise and innovative sales and marketing ideas to the traditional retail bakery through regional classes taught in person by General Mills baking and marketing experts.

 

A longtime tradition, the art of baking has historically been passed down through generations of bakers through apprentice relationships to sustain tried-and-true baking techniques. The demands of today’s changing business landscape present operators a challenge to get the in-depth educational opportunities they need. The Pillsbury Bakery Institute is leading the bakery evolution to create modern bakery experts through relevant classes, technical training, product knowledge and business consulting.

 

“General Mills is committed to providing educational resources for bakers and is a strong supporter of the baking community,” said Tommy Hillman, marketing manager, General Mills Bakeries & Foodservice division. “Operators have told us they are seeking business and technical baking support. Through the Pillsbury Bakery Institute, we’re providing the recipe for success in today’s competitive business environment by sharing our talent, expertise and resources with the bakery industry. Baking professionals will strengthen both their bench and their business skills through these classes.”

 

Beginning this month, bakers will have access to a number of classes on topics such as marketing, branding, defining a niche, making your bakery a destination, merchandising and packaging. For more information about upcoming classes in their area, bakers can visit www.pillsburybakery.com or contact their General Mills territory manager.