For Immediate Release

January 24, 2019

Evolution of Pizza Category Driving Demand for New Mix of Products

Boise, ID— January 24, 2019 — Based on compelling growth within the pizza market segment, the J.R. Simplot Company is returning to Pizza Expo as a 2019 sponsor and signature exhibitor. The brand was last seen at the event in 2007, and since that time has introduced multiple innovations to the foodservice industry across its portfolio.

“The way Consumers are eating is placing new demands on foodservice. Our broad product portfolio is helping pizza and Italian Operators meet expectations with new and unique offerings that drive traffic and increase check averages,” said Travis Dryden, Sr. Marketing Manager for Commercial Accounts at The J.R. Simplot Company.

Pizza Operators of All Types Winning with Simplot

Pizza Operators from across the U.S., in all segments – from Fast Casual to Casual – are incorporating Simplot value-add potatoes, premium roasted fruits and vegetables, avocado and popular ancient grain blends into their menus in surprising ways. They are renovating menus at faster pace than ever before and including a wider variety of items that Consumers are craving.

“Pizza has always been an off premise dining leader, but now as chain and even local pizza Operators are facing more competition, we’re helping them gain and retain customers with unique menu creations,” adds Michael Zeller, Corporate Executive Chef, J.R. Simplot Company. “Fries are an ideal and highly profitable addition to the menu, whether baked, fried or loaded with popular pizzeria toppings, they’re taking the traditional pizza menu beyond dough-based and salad type offerings.”

Roasted Vegetables and Grains among Newest Menu Innovations

As part of the recent relaunch of the Simplot Roast Works® line of premium roasted vegetables and fruits, Simplot has created several new vegetable-themed and plant-based pizza creations. These concepts will be showcased during Pizza Expo 2019 alongside increasingly popular ancient grain blends and multiple formats of Simplot’s signature avocado products.

“Roasted vegetables attract Consumers with the power of a ‘Healthy Halo’ plus they have rich and intense flavors that elevate dishes to signature menu item status,” says Mandy Harrison, Sr. Marketing Manager for Simplot Vegetables. “Likewise, ancient grain blends with couscous and quinoa appeal to a wider variety of diners, especially those on lifestyle diets that focus on plant-based proteins.”

With over 70 years of foodservice expertise and innovation, The J.R. Simplot Company is a family-owned agribusiness company headquartered in Boise, ID with international reach and a legacy of service to the top names in commercial foodservice including top regional pizza chains. The brand’s mission of Bringing Earth’s Resources to Life is built on three pillars – Respect for Resources, Passion for People and a Spirit of Innovation.

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The J.R. Simplot Company and its branded products are either registered trademarks or trademarks of The J.R. Simplot Company in the United States and/or other countries.

For more information, press only:

Travis Dryden

(208) 780-8211

Travis.dryden@simplot.com

For more information on its branded products:

www.simplotfoods.com