Bedford’s TagBack® Program Named 2025 IBIE BEST in Baking Recipient
WORTHINGTON, Minn. (Aug. 19, 2025) – Global twist tie leader Bedford Industries’ TagBack program was recently named a 2025 IBIE BEST in Baking recipient for its recycling initiative that turns packaging into recycled plastic lumber.
The Minnesota manufacturer is being recognized in the Sustainable Packaging Innovation, Supplier category, during the upcoming IBIE conference, Sept. 13-17 in Las Vegas. Bedford’s booth is #2465 - West Hall.
“Bedford's innovative system stands apart from the other candidates in this field,” said BEST in Baking Judge Anton Rozich, Director of Product Planning, The Austin Co. “This can be utilized as a valuable solution in the future to address concerns and complaints made by consumers in the baking industry, which will improve bakers' ability to improve product quality.”
The TagBack program has accepted twist ties and bag closures since its inception in 2019. Most recently, Bedford launched a new logo + scannable QR code to make it easier for bakeries to promote recyclability directly on its bread packaging. When consumers scan the QR code, they are delivered step-by-step instructions how to return the bag’s closure. For bakeries already using Bedford Twist Tie® or bag closures, the sustainable feature requires no change from their current closing method.
“More and more of our bakery customers are searching for ways to continue providing the same quality products consumers expect in a more sustainable way,” said Katie Larson, VP of Sales & Marketing. “We’re proud to work with them to find solutions that best meet that need, which includes the introduction of our TagBack program and new logo to enhance visibility.”
Bedford has produced twist ties for major bakeries since 1966. Consumers are able to mail in or drop at a participating drop off site twist ties, produce tags, bag closures, and ElastiTag hang tags. In-house equipment has sorted and separated more than 230,000 pounds of reclaimed items. The reusable portions are turned into PolyScape® recycled plastic lumber, which is also manufactured by Bedford.
To date, almost 300 drop box locations exist across nearly every state. For a list of all locations, visit tagback.com.
