Hormel Foods Seeks Nominations for 2025 Class of 10 Under 20 Food Heroes: Fostering Future Leaders in Food Security

AUSTIN, Minn. – July 15, 2025 – Hormel Foods Corporation (NYSE: HRL), a globally recognized Fortune 500 branded food company, has officially opened nominations for its prestigious 2025 class of 10 Under 20 Food Heroes. This impactful program is designed to identify, celebrate, and empower young leaders who are making significant strides in addressing critical issues such as food insecurity and driving sustainable food solutions across their communities and beyond.

The initiative underscores Hormel Foods' deep-rooted commitment to corporate social responsibility and its vision for a more food-secure and sustainable future. By spotlighting the innovative efforts of individuals under the age of 20, the company aims to inspire a new generation of changemakers and provide them with the recognition and resources needed to amplify their impact. The program seeks out young people who are demonstrating exceptional leadership, creativity, and dedication in areas ranging from developing innovative food waste reduction strategies to establishing community gardens, advocating for equitable food access, and pioneering sustainable agricultural practices.

The Vision Behind the Program

Announced originally as a cornerstone of Hormel Foods' broader societal impact goals, the 10 Under 20 Food Heroes program aligns seamlessly with global efforts to achieve zero hunger and promote responsible consumption and production. The company believes that investing in youth leadership is paramount to tackling complex challenges within the food system. Each selected 'Food Hero' will not only receive significant public recognition but also gain access to mentorship opportunities, potential funding for their projects, and a platform to share their stories and inspire others.

Nominations are open to individuals, schools, and non-profit organizations, encouraging a wide array of submissions that reflect the diverse and impactful work being done by young people. The selection process will involve a rigorous review by a panel of experts from Hormel Foods and external partners, focusing on the nominee's demonstrated impact, innovation, scalability of their initiatives, and their potential for future leadership.

Market Context and Implications for HRL

For Hormel Foods (HRL), this program is more than just a philanthropic endeavor; it's a strategic move that enhances its brand reputation and strengthens its connection with consumers, particularly younger demographics who increasingly prioritize corporate social responsibility. In today's competitive food industry, companies are under growing pressure to demonstrate their commitment to environmental, social, and governance (ESG) principles. Initiatives like the 10 Under 20 Food Heroes program contribute positively to HRL's ESG profile, potentially attracting socially conscious investors and improving consumer loyalty.

The food sector is currently navigating significant shifts, including heightened awareness of supply chain resilience, sustainable sourcing, and food waste. By actively supporting solutions in these areas through its youth program, Hormel Foods positions itself as a forward-thinking leader, not just in product innovation but also in societal contribution. This proactive engagement can differentiate HRL from competitors and foster long-term brand equity.

Investment Insights

Investors tracking HRL should view this initiative as a positive indicator of the company's commitment to long-term sustainability and brand building. While the direct financial impact may not be immediately quantifiable, strong ESG performance can lead to several indirect benefits:

• Enhanced Brand Value: A positive public image can translate into stronger consumer preference and pricing power.
• Risk Mitigation: Proactive engagement in social issues can reduce regulatory risks and improve community relations.
• Talent Attraction: Companies with strong social missions often attract and retain top talent, crucial for innovation and operational excellence.
• Investor Appeal: A growing segment of institutional and retail investors are integrating ESG factors into their investment decisions, making HRL potentially more attractive to this capital.

While this announcement doesn't directly impact quarterly earnings, it reinforces the qualitative aspects of HRL's investment thesis, particularly for those focused on sustainable and responsible investing. Investors should monitor future reports on the program's success and how it integrates into Hormel's broader sustainability goals, as these can contribute to the company's long-term value creation.

Nominations for the 2025 class are open until [specific date, if available, otherwise omit or generalize], with the final class expected to be announced later in the year. Hormel Foods encourages everyone to consider nominating deserving young individuals who are making a tangible difference in the fight against food insecurity and in promoting sustainable food systems.