ATCHISON, Kan., August 10, 2016—The Kansas Department of Commerce recently honored MGP as one of 21 Regional Business Award winners across the state in recognition of the company’s business achievements and high level of community support and involvement. This was the second time in just four years that MGP received the award, which is presented as part of the Commerce Department’s Annual Business Appreciation Program that celebrates Kansas businesses and their contributions to their communities and the state economy.
According to Kansas Commerce Secretary Antonio Soave, the Business Appreciation awards “give the Commerce Department the opportunity to show its support, recognition and gratitude for the businesses who work hard to excel in the State of Kansas.” Soave added, “The businesses that have been selected as winners represent the dedication of Kansas workers, the resounding infrastructure that these businesses are built on and the level of support created by the State of Kansas for every type of business.”
Divided into six regions of the state, the awards program recognizes businesses from nominations submitted across four categories: manufacturing/distribution; service; retail; and hospital/non-profit. Nominated by the City of Atchison in the manufacturing/distribution category, MGP was one of only two regional award winners from the state’s 19-county northeast region. The other winner in this region was Atchison Hospital.
“MGP is deeply grateful for having been nominated and subsequently chosen as a recipient of this distinguished award,” said Gus Griffin, MGP president and chief executive officer. “This type of recognition is especially significant in 2016 considering that we are celebrating the 75th anniversary of our company’s founding in Atchison. Throughout the company’s history, our generations of employees have never lost their focus on continually strengthening our business and delivering on initiatives that provide value and benefits to our community neighbors, as well as customers, shareholders and other key stakeholders.”
Becky Anderson, City of Atchison finance director and assistant city manager, stated, “We want to congratulate MGP for their selection as a Regional BAM Award winner by the Department of Commerce. MGP has been a pillar of the Atchison community for 75 years and the City is so grateful for their continued investment in Atchison and exemplary level of community support. MGP’s recognition as an important business partner in our region is richly deserved and the City was honored with the privilege of nominating them for this award.”
Support of community enhancement activities and programs related to the recruitment and retention of employees were among criteria on which award selections were based. Through its Corporate Gifts Program and the volunteer involvement of numerous employees, MGP supports multiple non-profit organizations, projects and events in Atchison and the surrounding area, as well as in Lawrenceburg, Ind., site of the company’s other major facility.
Principal categories of community initiatives which the company supports are focused on educational endeavors, quality of life enhancement projects, and the general health and well-being of area residents. MGP also maintains active involvement in numerous community projects and organizations, including Chamber of Commerce board, council and committee functions, and additionally has performed active roles in local and area economic development projects throughout its history.
Regarding personnel programs and practices, MGP attracts prospective employees with career opportunities in multiple disciplines, such as manufacturing and other supply chain functions, sales and marketing, engineering, finance and administration, research and development and technical applications, to name a few. The company offers employees various internal and external training programs and has an online university for all staff to strengthen their expertise and build leadership competencies. MGP additionally provides programs to cross-train employees in all areas of the organization.
About MGP
Celebrating its 75th anniversary, MGP is a leading supplier of premium distilled spirits and specialty wheat proteins and starches. Distilled spirits include bourbon and rye whiskeys, gins and vodkas, which are carefully crafted through a combination of art and science and backed by a long history of experience. The company's proteins and starches are created in the same manner and provide a host of functional, nutritional and sensory benefits for a wide range of food products. MGP additionally is a top producer of high quality industrial alcohol for use in both food and non-food applications. The company is headquartered in Atchison, Kansas, where distilled alcohol products and food ingredients are produced. Premium spirits are also distilled and matured at the company’s facility in Lawrenceburg, Indiana. For more information, visit mgpingredients.com.