The North Carolina Association of Festivals and Events announces Smithfield Foods as the 2022 ShowFest Excellence Awards winner for Festivals and Events Sponsor of the Year.  Smithfield Foods was recognized as the award recipient for their support and partnership with Blue, Brew & Que and Pickles, Pigs and Swigs.  This award is given to highlight the best and brightest business, civic or service organization whose outstanding financial support and/or manpower to the festival/event sets an example for others across the Carolinas.   

On Thursday, February 10, 2022, an award announcement was held at Duplin County Airport to present Smithfield Foods with their award. Receiving the award for Smithfield Foods was Steve Evans, Director of Community Development and Rhonda Campbell, Sustainability Manager.   

Steve Evans, Director of Community Development for Smithfield Foods said, “We are thrilled to continually support Duplin and the surrounding counties with activities that brings neighbors, family and friends together in a positive way. Smithfield Foods has always been committed to doing good whether it’s by creating a great work environment for our workforce, the humane care and treatment of our animals or our stewardship to the environment. Smithfield Foods is in the doing good business and Good is What We Do. We look forward to continually supporting our communities and appreciate all our communities do in supporting us to make Good Food Responsibly. We’re honored by this recognition” 

 “Duplin County has experienced the generosity of Smithfield year after year and festival after festival. Smithfield Foods not only assist our festivals and events with monetary donations, they also partner with us to volunteer their time and resources. Duplin County’s Blue, Brew & ‘Que Festival has become a rapidly growing, must attend, annual festival.   Smithfield always steps up to be a leading sponsor of this NC Pork Council sanctioned event.”, said Amanda Justice, Duplin County Travel and Tourism Director.    

Duplin County Manager, Davis Brinson said, “We are grateful for Smithfield Foods’ generosity and dedication to Duplin County. Smithfield Foods continues to assist with our local festivals and events not only with monetary donations but also by volunteering their time and resources. We are thankful for all of our businesses and industries, such as Smithfield Foods.”  

Smithfield Foods is dedicated to producing “Good food. Responsibly.” As one of the world’s leading vertically integrated protein companies, Smithfield demonstrates their commitment to assisting communities where their employees live and work.