GONNELLA BAKING EARNS AIB AND NSF CERTIFICATES

CHICAGO, IL. – Gonnella Baking Company's Aurora, Chicago, and Shaumburg plants were recently recognized by the American Institute of Baking and the National Sanitation Foundation. The AIB and NSF audits are a barometer for suppliers who are committed to excellence and provide safe, high quality food products to consumers while adhering to strict food safety regulations. The comprehensive reviews evaluate the adequacy of food safety programs, management systems, pest control programs, operational methods and personnel practices, maintenance for food safety and cleaning practices.

“We are extremely proud of this significant achievement,” said Tom Marcucci, vice president of marketing for Gonnella. “Food safety audits are held in the highest regard by our industry. Our success is due to the tremendous efforts put forth by our plant managers and teams. It also signifies a level of dedication that we strive for everyday. More customers today, especially national companies involved in the fresh bakery business, recognize the value and importance of these high quality standards.”

A Chicago area institution since 1886, Gonnella has experienced tremendous growth in the last five years. The company currently produces over 1-1/2 million pounds of product weekly as a supplier for the in-store bakery and food service industries. To accommodate the business growth spurt, Gonnella expanded its operations in 2002 with the purchase of a new baking and distribution property in west suburban Aurora.

The 65,000 square-foot facility opened in January 2003 with state-of-the-art equipment, highlighted by a signature 125-foot long, 14-foot wide indirect fired oven. The Aurora plant produces a variety of sliced and rye breads, plus hamburger and hot dog buns, and its location is instrumental in servicing customers and routes in the western suburbs, and in Wisconsin and Indianapolis.

Gonnella produces its extremely popular frozen dough product from the Schaumburg facility. The Chicago plant, part of company headquarters on the city’s west side, is a workhorse operation as it produces fresh baked Italian and French style specialty breads for grocers and restaurants, plus a variety of bread crumbs, rolls and breadsticks.

Gonnella Baking Company celebrated its 120th anniversary in 2006. For more information contact Paul Gonnella, Vice President of Sales, 2006 W. Erie St., Chicago, Illinois 60612. Telephone (312) 733-2020, fax (312) 733-7670; web: www.gonnella.com