The Hormel Foods Story
The story of our first 116 years provides a valuable perspective on the future direction and development of our company as we experience our second century of growth. Unquestionably, we will continue to encounter changing consumer lifestyles and sweeping food trends. Ongoing industry challenges and new outside competition will require increasing attention and adherence to production, marketing and distribution services that form the “lifeline” of the organization.
But the moral of the Hormel Foods story is undeniably this: because Hormel Foods is a food company choosing to lead—rather than follow—clear vision and an understanding of emerging new market opportunities is as crucial moving forward as it was back in the days of George A. Hormel.
Steadfast to Our Principles
Over the years, our company has experienced times of great achievement as well as great hardship—times colored and shaped by human energy, commitment and trust. We are constantly transforming ourselves as an organization, and competitors are an ever-present force which renews our commitment to deliver quality products to our consumers.
Our focus continues to hold steadfast to the principles and values that have led us to where we are today—a preeminent food company with a longstanding reputation for quality products with distinct points of difference, which distinguish us from others in the industry.
A Legacy Rooted in Innovation, Teamwork and an Intense Commitment to Quality
Throughout the Hormel Foods story, you will see a company with a culture built on strong, solidly based values. While much has changed in the food industry and world in 116 years, these values—integrity, an uninterrupted quest for quality and innovation, a respect for each other and a commitment to community—define Hormel Foods today.
There are many “stars” in the story of Hormel Foods, from our employees current and former, numbering in the thousands, to our stockholders, producers, supplies and communities—all valued business partners. Most of all, we recognize our customers and consumers the world over, who vote their confidence every time they choose our products.
Tomorrow’s Niche Foods
At Hormel Foods, we believe that tomorrow’s foods will be targeted to specific market segments, resulting in “niche” products meeting the selective, specialized needs of consumers, young and old. We understand that this ongoing market fragmentation will result not only in a need to continue to expand our food offerings, but also to compete ever harder to please the palates of our consumers.
We know that to remain a truly successful food company in the future, we must be innovative as we create products responsive to new lifestyles and changing family eating patterns. Our continued leadership is dependent upon the development of technological advantages through state-of-the-art production methods that provide economies of scale.
New Global Dimensions
Hormel Foods is firmly established in its second century, and we are solidly positioned for the journey of new opportunities before us. As global trade and instantaneous communications bind continents and cultures together, high-quality brand names are not limited by geographic boundaries.
We see boundless opportunity for Hormel Foods, thanks to those who have and will have a hand in shaping our future.