WASHINGTON — Norman S. Rich, who retired recently as president and chief executive officer of Weis Markets, Inc., Sunbury, Pa., will address the 2009 annual meeting of the American Bakers Association.

Mr. Rich will serve as the "retail headline speaker" April 6 at the 2009 convention to be held at The Ritz-Carlton hotel, Amelia Island, Fla.

In his presentation, Mr. Rich will offer perspectives on consumer buying habits during difficult economic times and how bakers are positioned to benefit and help their customers benefit.

Robb MacKie, A.B.A. president and chief executive officer, said the bakers are "extremely fortunate" Mr. Rich will be participating in the meeting. He noted that in addition to his work at Weis, Mr. Rich is a former vice-chairman of Food Marketing Institute

"Norm Rich will offer his thoughts on broader trends in the retail grocery business derived from 40 years including 15 years on the board of directors of F.M.I.," Mr. MacKie said.

Mr. Rich’s background at Weis includes a period in which he was director of in-store bakeries and deli merchandising, director and vice-president of store operations, executive vice-president and a member of the board of directors. Weis had sales of $2.3 billion in 2008. The company owns 155 supermarkets and 30 SuperPetz pet supply stores as well as dairy, ice cream manufacturing and meat processing facilities.

He retired in December and serves as an advisor and consultant to companies in the areas of food safety and strategic planning.

A.B.A. said the theme of its 2009 convention will be "navigating through turbulent times."