Hormel

George A. Hormel opened his first shop in Austin, Minnesota, in 1891 to package ham and sausage for local families. That small start grew into a massive enterprise that now ships products to over 80 countries with a workforce exceeding 18,000 people worldwide. The brand became globally recognized in 1937 when it introduced Spam, a canned meat item that fed troops during World War II and eventually found its way into kitchens across the globe.

The company's reach extends far beyond cured meats today. It owns major brands like PLANTERS, SKIPPY, JENNIE-O Turkey Store, and OMAHA STEAKS. These acquisitions transformed the business from a regional butcher into a diversified food giant handling everything from peanut butter and nuts to fresh turkey and frozen meals.

Recent leadership shifts in late September 2026 highlight a focus on future growth. Dr. Aaron Asmus took the role of Vice President of Research & Development while Lisa Selk moved into Vice President of Growth and Innovation. These appointments signal a strategic push to balance pricing strategies with profitability as the company navigates falling unit sales in some categories. [edit]