Hormel Foods Recognized in Fast Company's 2025 Brands That Matter List

Hormel Foods Lands on Fast Company's 2025 Brands That Matter List

Hormel Foods Corporation, a major player in the global food industry, has been recognized as one of the 2025 Brands That Matter by Fast Company. This honor underscores the company's ability to engage with audiences in a meaningful way, demystifying the art of branding in today's fast-paced market.

Based in Austin, Minnesota, Hormel Foods is known for its commitment to quality and innovation, and this recognition highlights the impact they’ve made within the food industry. Fast Company awards brands that resonate on a cultural level, celebrating those that are not only recognized for their products but for their ability to create significant connections with consumers.

The accolade comes as a result of Hormel’s clever marketing campaign, “Here for the Snacks,” especially designed for the Big Game. This initiative focused on redefining what game day means to sports fans. While traditionally, the spotlight is primarily on football, Hormel’s campaign emphasized that snacks deserve just as much recognition. It rallied together an ensemble of beloved brands like HORMEL® pepperoni, HERDEZ®, WHOLLY®, and PLANTERS® to communicate a core insight: for many fans, the food experience is as critical, if not more so, than the game itself.

Scott Aakre, Hormel Foods' group vice president and chief marketing officer, expressed his gratitude for the recognition, stating, “We are honored to be named to Fast Company's Brands That Matter list. This recognition highlights our approach to creating campaigns that connect with people and our customers and reflect how culture – not just promotion – drives brand relevance.”

Hormel Foods has always emphasized the importance of authentic engagement in their marketing strategies. The Big Game campaign not only struck a chord with the audience but also produced tangible results, reinforcing Hormel's status as a brand that understands consumer needs.

“Fast Company’s list isn’t merely a set of accolades,” commented Brendan Vaughan, editor-in-chief of Fast Company. “It reflects the dedication and creativity of brands that seek to forge authentic relationships with their audiences.” This perspective aligns seamlessly with Hormel's mission to deliver exceptional products that inspire culinary creativity at home.

Hormel Foods operates numerous well-known brands including SKIPPY®, SPAM®, HORMEL® NATURAL CHOICE®, APPLEGATE®, JUSTIN'S®, and others, bringing beloved foods that resonate with families across many cultures. With approximately $12 billion in annual revenue, the company also boasts a strong presence on the S&P 500 Index, evidencing its economic resilience and smart business strategy.

This acknowledgment from Fast Company adds another feather to Hormel’s cap, which already includes honors from media outlets like U.S. News & World Report and TIME magazine, recognizing it as one of the best companies to work for, as well as accolades for its corporate responsibility and community service initiatives.

The “Inspired People. Inspired Food.™” ethos is not just a motto but a commitment Hormel Foods embraces every day, aiming to not only provide nourishment but to also create moments of joy across dining tables worldwide. As consumers continue to prioritize brand values and engagement, Hormel Foods stands out by focusing on what truly matters—the individuals who savor their products.

For anyone interested in learning more about this forward-thinking company, a visit to hormelfoods.com will unveil their complete range of offerings and initiatives. Furthermore, Fast Company's 2025 Brands That Matter features more insights into why Hormel is regarded as a leader in their field, showcasing marketing feats that connect deeply with culture and community.

As the food industry evolves, Hormel Foods remains at the forefront, not just adapting to change but actively pushing the boundaries of traditional marketing, ensuring their role as a household name in modern cuisine.