JACKSON, MI — Dawn Foods, a global bakery manufacturer and ingredient supplier, has named Ardent Mills and D’Bazo as the Dawn Distribution Advantage (DDA) North America Vendors of the Year for 2023.
DDA is a customer-focused buying cooperative consisting of Dawn Foods’ distribution centers and independent distributor partners. Each year, the cooperative recognizes vendors that deliver growth and provide outstanding partnerships for bakery customers across the region.
Ardent Mills, a partner of Dawn Foods for over 25 years, was recognized for its commitment to continuous improvement and partnership.
Throughout 2023, Ardent Mills continually increased efficiencies in its facilities while optimizing its network, according to Dawn. Meanwhile, comprehensive product training supported a commitment to product expertise that helps bakers select the best flour for their applications.
“Ardent Mills generously provides technical training for our customers and commercial team to ensure everyone throughout the supply chain is equipped with the skills and insights needed for success,” said Paul Caske, VP of national technical sales and chairman of the board for DDA. “Whether fielding questions from customers or guiding us through a comprehensive new crop transition process, their support has been instrumental in ensuring that our mixes maintain consistent performance and our customers have everything they need to be successful.”
As a premier flour milling and ingredient company, Ardent Mills touts a commitment to transforming how food companies can feed the world. Its partnership with Dawn has supported that mission and led to the recognition, which Ardent Mills also received in 2021.
“Without a doubt, Dawn is a valued and trusted partner,” said Dan Dye, CEO of Ardent Mills. “On behalf of the 17 mills that stand shoulder to shoulder with Dawn and every dedicated Ardent Mills team member who is devoted to serving Dawn, we extend our heartfelt gratitude for this recognition. We look forward to elevating our partnership in the years that lie ahead.”
"On behalf of the 17 mills that stand shoulder to shoulder with Dawn and every dedicated Ardent Mills team member … we extend our heartfelt gratitude for this recognition.” — Dan Dye | CEO | Ardent Mills
According to Dawn, D’Bazo’s recognition was based on outstanding partnership and a premium Dulce de Leche product that has not only impressed customers in the artisanal and retail bakery channel but is also making waves in foodservice and supermarket channels.
The D’Bazo team credits a team effort for the success and this recognition.
“This award is the result of teamwork with Dawn Foods, and we are thankful to be recognized with this achievement,” said Delia Bazo, owner of D’Bazo. “Our partnership with Dawn provides us with the leadership and success needed to help deliver for our mutual clients in the United States.”
A family-owned business, D’Bazo has partnered with Dawn Foods since 2000. The company also received the Vendor of the Year recognition in 2021.
“D’Bazo is an exceptional partner that continues to impress with their commitment to reliability and operational excellence,” Caske said. “Delia and team have worked diligently to ensure all of our orders arrive on time and in full, a true testament to their professionalism and partnership.”
DDA’s Vendor of the Year award is a way to recognize not only service to bakeries but also the work companies put in at every level to ensure the delivery of high-quality products.
“Having premium products is not enough without the support of an outstanding group of people getting involved at all levels; from the production process all the way to the end consumer,” Bazo added. “We cannot thank Dawn Foods enough for the opportunity they provide us year after year in successfully reaching our goals.”
