Honoring Suppliers for 2018 Business Contributions

Ferrara Candy Company convened and honored its suppliers for their contributions to the business in 2018. This annual event gathered both long-time, Ferrara suppliers as well as partners that are new to the company as a result of the 2018 acquisition of Nestlé U.S. Confectionery business.

Ahmet Hepdogan, Vice President of Procurement for Ferrara Candy Company, spoke to the group, acknowledging 2018 as a unique year for the company given integration and changing consumer and customer needs. He challenged suppliers to partner with the company on innovation and value generation, and underscored Ferrara’s commitment to trust, transparency, and fostering and nurturing relationships with its suppliers. Hepdogan said, “I’m proud of the progress we have made together to delight consumers, and we are grateful for your system-first behaviors.”

Ferrara Candy Company’s Chief Human Resources Officer, Mike Goldwasser, told suppliers, “We are better because of you, and I’m here to recognize your contributions to our business.” Goldwasser shared the company’s plans for 2019, and encouraged suppliers to align behind its business direction, vision and values.

Companies recognized at the event included Sunrise Confections, Malnove, Formel Industries, Inc., Ganong Bros., Ltd., Kendall Packaging, Bryce Corporation, General Converting, Inc., Carry Transit, G-Box Mexico, Sage V Foods, Belmark, Inc., and Sweet Additions. Ingenios Santos was named Supplier of the Year North America for its significant contributions in the areas of cost containment, corporate social responsibility, and service levels. Ingenios Santos is a sugar supplier to Ferrara, and achieved a 99.5% on an independent audit of its facilities conducted by Intertek. Carlos M. Gonzalez Bolio, Commercial Director for Ingenios Santos, accepted the award saying, “Ferrara helped us set the bar high for corporate social responsibility, and we are proud of what we have achieved.” Bolio congratulated the other award recipients as well.

Ferrara gave a Lifetime Achievement Award to Tony Moran of Morcor Industries, and inducted Les Jankowski into the company’s Hall of Fame. Jankowski passed away this year, and the company mourned the loss of their friend and colleague. They joined together to recognize his leadership of their Itasca, Ill., plant and his tireless commitment to Ferrara. Jankowski’s wife and son graciously accepted his induction.

Photo Credit: Luke Davis Photography, luke@lukedavisphotography.com