Cupcake Week on TV

British Baker has secured Food Network as the official TV partner for National Cupcake Week. Established as the number one food channel in the US, it was launched in the UK in December 2009 and has become the fastest-growing food channel. Cupcake baker interviews and events surrounding our competition to find Britain’s cupcake champion will be broadcast during 13-19 September (Sky Channel 262).

BSB Autumn event

The British Society of Baking’s Autumn Conference will take place on 4-5 October at the Ardencote Manor Hotel, Warwick. Speakers include Ian Martin, bakery director at Asda; Ted Rich of Rich Products; Edward Garner of Kantar; Kevin Kingsland, occupational psychologist; CSM’s Roel Orsel; Archy Cunningham, of United Central Bakeries; and Tony Parsons. For a full programme send an email to: bsb@freeuk.com

Maple Leaf ballot

Staff at Maple Leaf Bakery’s site in Walsall were being balloted on a mandate for industrial action as BB went to press, following a breakdown in pay negotiations. A Maple Leaf spokesperson said the firm had met with the Bakers Food and Allied Workers’ Union on 19 July, and that balloting of its members would begin on 27 July for a week.

Food price havoc

Banks have come under fire for risky and secretive gambling on coffee, cocoa and wheat, which is playing havoc with prices. Anti-poverty campaigning group, the World Development Movement, said banks’ dangerous speculation were causing a massive rise in food prices; cocoa prices have reached their highest levels for 33 years rising by 150% over 18 months.