MAGAZINE

SWEATER WEATHER & SEASONAL TREATS

As the last of the late summer days drift away, we find ourselves on the cusp of a season filled with change, colour, and culinary inspiration. Autumn is here, bringing shorter days, cooler weather, and a sense of anticipation for the celebrations that lie ahead. From the spooky excitement of Halloween to the dazzling displays of Fireworks Night, and ultimately the joyful build-up to Christmas, this time of year is one of the busiest and most creative periods for the bakery industry.

There is something undeniably comforting about this season. Log fires crackle in the hearth, winter woollies make their annual return, and the air seems to invite indulgence. For bakers, it is a season of flavours: the warm spice of cinnamon, the earthy richness of pumpkin, and the cosy familiarity of apple and nut combinations all take centre stage. Autumn is a time for innovation, with bakeries across the country experimenting to create seasonal bakes that entice, delight, and stand out in the window and on social media feeds alike.

In this issue, we take a closer look at the factors shaping the bakery industry as we move into the final months of the year. From crop changes and harvest updates that affect ingredient supply, to regenerative farming practices that are shaping a more sustainable future, there is plenty to explore. We also dive into the latest in automated bakery equipment, uncovering how technology is transforming production without sacrificing the quality and craft that consumers love. And of course, we dedicate time to the ever-evolving worlds of cakes and cookies, highlighting trends, innovation, and consumer demand as we prepare for the festive season.

As Christmas 2025 draws near, the creativity and skill of bakers across the country will be on full display. I am excited to see bakery windows and social media feeds come alive with seasonal bakes, from autumnal tarts to indulgent winter treats. And speaking of celebration, we are also on the run-up to the National Bakery Awards, where Britain’s finest bakeries will be recognised for their excellence, creativity, and dedication. It promises to be a season full of inspiration, flavour, and festive cheer.

So, grab a cup of something warming, settle in, and enjoy this autumn issue of Bakery Magazine—your guide to the flavours, trends, and innovations shaping the months ahead.

Sam