On a bumpy road, but heading in the right direction

József Septe
president 
Hungarian Bakers’ Association

József Septe, president of the Hungarian Bakers’ Association gave our magazine a comprehensive overview of the baking industry in the past eighteen months:

“The Hungarian Bakers’ Association has achieved significant results in several areas, all of which have served to strengthen the profession and develop our community. Our image and website have undergone a complete overhaul, and we regularly inform our members about current events affecting the industry and about available funding opportunities. We have launched free online marketing training for our members and we are planning further courses in the future. Thanks to the intensity of our activities, our membership has grown to 430 companies and a record number of bakery products entered the bread competition this year”.

“In 2025 the number of bakeries remained relatively stable, with approximately 900-1,000 bakery businesses operating in the country. Production costs have increased significantly, owing to fluctuations in the euro-forint exchange rate, rising energy prices, logistics and fuel costs, wages and raw materials. Consumers appreciate high-quality ingredients and traditional products made with sourdough or long fermentation processes. Health-conscious alternatives such as whole grain, gluten-free or seed-enriched products are also gaining ground. Unfortunately lots of bakeries struggle to find professionals with the right qualifications and experience. Today a modern bakery is also a community space. Our association is preparing for the SIRHA trade fair (3-5 March 2026) with a spectacular programme, showcasing both the traditions and innovations of the baking profession”.