Processor of the Year

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What does leadership look like in the competitive world of frozen foods? Sometimes the answer comes from unlikely sources - such as hockey legend Wayne Gretzky, someone also known for his work in icy arenas.

Built into the side of a hill, OSI Group’s Oakland Foods processing plant looks deceivingly small as you approach it along U.S. Highway 59. That’s because the bulk of this 350,000-square-foot protein processing facility’s roof is flush with the grass that meets the highway - giving the building’s exhaust stacks the appearance of coming straight out of the ground.

Can a company actually expand its horizons by narrowing its focus?

While it seems counterintuitive, executives say this strategy is reaping major rewards for the OSI Group, Aurora, Ill.

Last year, OSI executives committed to continue to focus on what this company does best - working hand-in-hand with a core group of customers to create long-term, strategic partnerships.

Dreyer's Bakersfield, Calif., Operations Center's production capabilities and safety programs are matched only by its massive size.

Focus, employee teamwork help reduce energy use at NORPAC Foods' Brooks, Ore., plant and start a continuous process revolution.

Wenner Bread's three Long Island, N.Y.-based processing facilities show a flair for worker and food safety.

Energy reduction is a cutting edge topic for Simplot Food Group and its Aberdeen, Idaho, plant.

Contessa Premium Foods' Green Cuisine processing plant is environmentally sound from all angles.

Lopez Foods hires a consultant to increase productivity, streamline operations at its Oklahoma City plant.

Smart maneuvers, creative innovation distinguish this year’s “Food Plants of the Year” honorees.