National Recognition for Johnsonville Sausage's International Work

Johnsonville Sausage, LLC of Sheboygan Falls was recognized for its international success when President George W. Bush and U.S. Department of Commerce Secretary Carlos M. Gutierrez presented the firm with the President's "E" Award for Export Excellence at the White House May 20. The "E" Award, the highest honor the Federal government can give to an American exporting company, recognizes U.S. firms for their competitive achievements in world markets and their part in increasing U.S. exports abroad.

"Johnsonville made the strategic decision years ago to invest in expanding the company's activities outside the United States, as a way to increase channels for growth," said Bill Morgan, the company's president. "This strategy, based upon brand development in international markets and building an international infrastructure, has allowed us to grow so that we're currently exporting to 30 countries around the world." Through extensive consumer research, Johnsonville produces several products solely for certain markets and tailored to the local flavors of that country. Products include Lemon and Herb sausage in Japan, Honey and Garlic sausage in Canada and Meridionale sausage in France.

Johnsonville Sausage is the number one national brand of brats, Italian sausage, smoked-cooked links and fresh breakfast sausage links in the United States. The company was established in 1945 and currently employs more than 1,400 workers in Wisconsin and Kansas.

The Presidential "E" Award was created by President John F. Kennedy in 1961. It is given to persons, firms, and organizations engaged in the marketing of products that make significant contributions to the expansion of the export trade of the United States.

-- Stanley Pfrang