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Diversity

We define diversity as respect for, and inclusion of, the unique differences of every individual.

At Hormel Foods, diversity is defined as respect for, and inclusion of, the unique differences of every individual, which encompasses personal attributes, values and organizational roles. Embracing all of the ways in which we are different — beyond race and gender — fosters innovation and cultivates an environment where people aspire to work and build long-term careers.

Our Chairman of the Board, President and Chief Executive Officer, Jeffrey M Ettinger, has demonstrated his commitment to this focus by including it among the company’s key strategies. We have convened a cross-functional diversity and inclusion council to assist the company in meeting the growing needs of our diverse workforce and to ensure inclusion. We provide formal inclusion training to our managers and are putting the foundation in place to encourage employee networks to form.

Our Board of Directors reflects the diversity of our company. This 13-member board includes four women and three people of color. Company-wide, women represented 35 percent and 34 percent of our workforce in fiscal years 2007 and 2008, respectively. Our minority workforce represented 46 percent and 47 percent in fiscal years 2007 and 2008, respectively.

Supplier Diversity

We continue this philosophy when working with our suppliers. Our policy states that Hormel Foods is committed to providing a respectful and inclusive environment where our employees, customers, consumers and suppliers grow and succeed. Our supplier diversity program provides businesses an opportunity to provide quality product options that meet the company’s growing business needs.

We are committed to providing opportunities to diverse suppliers, such as women-owned and minority-owned businesses, that provide the highest quality materials and services to our internal and external customers on a timely basis at the best economic value. Suppliers can submit their business for consideration at https://suppliers.hormelfoods.com.

In fiscal years 2007 and 2008, we purchased 28 percent and 20 percent of our resources from small businesses, respectively. Of these small businesses, 1 percent were women-owned or minority-owned businesses during each fiscal year.