Member Spotlight: Van der Graaf Invests in Industry, Innovation and the Next Generation

For Van der Graaf (VDG), supporting the poultry and egg industry extends far beyond its business operations. Through its long-standing membership in The Poultry Federation, continued investment in student programs and consistent support of the organization’s mission, VDG has established itself as a partner that makes a meaningful difference.

TPF President Blake Rollins recently visited VDG’s headquarters and manufacturing facility in Toronto, Canada. During the visit, Rollins congratulated the VDG team on once again being recognized as a Top Contributor of The Poultry Federation and learned more about the company’s operations and more than four decades of growth and innovation in North America, including its presence in Russellville, Arkansas.

“Congratulations to Alex Kanaris and the entire VDG team on more than 40 years of success in North America and on once again being recognized as one of TPF’s Top Contributors,” said Rollins. “We appreciate VDG’s continued support of The Poultry Federation, and I enjoyed the opportunity to learn more about the company’s remarkable story and business.”

Since TPF introduced its Top Contributor recognition program three years ago, VDG has consistently ranked among the organization’s leading supporters. This recognition reflects more than financial support it represents a sustained commitment to the programs, events and outreach efforts that allow TPF to promote and protect the poultry and egg industry throughout Arkansas, Missouri and Oklahoma.

One of the clearest examples of that commitment is VDG’s support of the Arkansas 4-H State Cooking Competition. For more than five years, VDG has helped make it possible for 4-H students to participate in the competition held in conjunction with TPF’s Annual Poultry Festival and All Member Cooking Competition.

The partnership gives participating students an opportunity to demonstrate their skills while experiencing one of the poultry industry’s largest annual gatherings in the region. By bringing students into the festival environment, the competition provides valuable exposure to poultry professionals, companies and career opportunities they may not otherwise encounter.

This connection is an important part of TPF’s student outreach efforts. Introducing young people to the people and possibilities within poultry and egg production helps build awareness of the industry and encourages the next generation to consider the many educational and career paths it offers.

VDG’s continued investment helps TPF maintain that connection and expand the impact of the program year after year.

TPF appreciates VDG’s commitment to the next generation of our industry,” said Rollins. “VDG’s continued support of the Arkansas 4-H State Cooking Competition gives students the opportunity to compete and connect with poultry industry leaders.

As a long-standing TPF member, VDG demonstrates the value of active industry partnership. Its leadership, generosity and willingness to invest in the next generation strengthen not only The Poultry Federation, but also the broader poultry and egg community.

The work of promoting and protecting the poultry and egg industry across TPF’s tri-state region is made possible by members who choose to do more than simply belong. They participate, invest and help move the industry forward.

VDG is one of those members, and The Poultry Federation is proud to recognize the company for its continued partnership and lasting impact.