Cake decorators who are employed by a RBA member bakery may now apply to compete in this year's Creative Decorating Competition to be held at the American Retail Bakery Exposition (ARBE), October 18-20, 2009 in Charlotte, NC. Contestants compete for over $14,000 in cash, and will compete in five categories during the two-day competition on the tradeshow floor.

The highest scoring individual, as determined by a panel of judges, will be awarded the coveted Pillsbury Grand Champion Trophy, sponsored by General Mills.  Gold, silver, and bronze medals along with cash prizes will also be awarded for the highest three scores in each category.

All contestants must be members of the Retail Bakers of America, must work full-time or part-time in a retail bakery, and have a minimum of four years of decorating experience. Contestants can enter by competing at their local affiliate contest or by portfolio if they do business in an area not covered by a local affiliate.  Application by portfolio must be postmarked by July 31, 2009. Contestants will be announced by August 15, 2009.

Retail Bakers of America (RBA)—a 501(c)6 not-for-profit trade association located in McLean, VA, caters to retail bakeries, allied suppliers, educators, students and other industry partners, and is committed to the success of the retail baking industry. Founded in 1918, RBA works as the bakers’ business partner and resource provider, and is the nation’s premier source of industry information.  RBA hosts the American Retail Bakery Exposition (ARBE) October 18-20, 2009 in Charlotte, NC. More information is available at www.rbanet.com or www.rbanet.com/ARBE2009.