Posted January 22, 2024
Article by Carie Lawrence:
J.R. “Jack” Simplot started his career in 1923 in a small farming community of Declo, Idaho. According to the company website, he quit school to start his own business at the age of 14! J.R. Simplot Company was founded in 1929 and is now one of the world’s leading agribusiness company with a mission statement that says: Bringing
Earth’s Resources to Life, according to the company website. The Simplot Food Group has been awarded Agriculturist of the Year.
In February of 2022, Kraft Heinz and J.R. Simplot Company made a deal, selling Ore-Ida in Ontario to Simplot, making them the exclusive manufacturer of Ore-Idaho products. Ore-Ida is a nationwide brand that produces Tater tots, crinkle fries,
hashbrowns, mashed potatoes, and other products.
Plant director, Justin Smith, facilitates the Ontario manufacturing facility. Smith commented that it is an honor for the company to be named Agriculturist of the Year. “We are proud to be a part of a supportive community and contribute to that community by helping local schools, food banks, and anywhere we can.” The company has
donated products to help feed people in need, they have spent many hours volunteering at local events, and they continue to seek opportunities to support locally. According to the Simplot website, they also have a community sponsorship program.
“Simplot’s community involvement is part of a larger pledge of integrity we make to our employees, customers and communities,” stated on the website.
The J.R. Simplot Company Foundation supports nonprofit organizations as well, particularly those with a mission to improve art, education, youth, community, and global food and agriculture.
