Retail Bakers of America (RBA) has named Barry Kahn and Jack Karp as the 2011 Class of Emeritus members for their influence on the association and the baking industry.

Kahn is the owner and president of Food Scene Inc. He started the company in 1981 after selling his family business, Federal Bakers. Kahn is a longtime member and supporter of the RBA and is also supporter of the New Jersey Bakers Board of Trade and the Atlantic Bakery Expo.

Karp was the president and CEO of Karp and Sons from the early 1970s until its sale to CSM Bakery Products in 1999. He was responsible for the progression of Karp’s from a small, older facility local bakery distributor to one of a national level distributor, manufacturer, and industry innovator. In retirement, he is active in his community.

RBA established the designation in 2007 to recognize the work of baking, decorating and equipment supplier professionals who are active contributors to the association and the industry.

RBA’s board of directors nominates individuals from their regional associations, highlighting the significant contributions made to the association and the industry. Members of the Emeritus Member class receive an individual lifetime membership.

Kahn and Karp will be honored at an awards banquet at All Things Baking, which will be in Schaumburg, Ill., October 2–4, 2011.