NoKota Packers, established in 1979, is celebrating 45 years of operation, said Carissa Olsen, president and CEO.
The Buxton, N.D.-based company, part of the Fresh Solutions Network and supplier of Side Delights potato products, is planning an open house in early 2025 to celebrate the achievement, Olsen said.
“Our current owners — Ron Gjelsness, Tim Lee, Kendall Gjelsness and Christopher Gjelsness — have been steadfast in our commitment to quality, integrity and service over the 45 years we have been in business,” Olsen said. “We want to thank them for their guidance, expertise and support. They were instrumental in the newest improvements we completed this fall.”
Those improvements included an updated optical, an updated packaging line and the addition of a robotic stacker to improve efficiencies.
Olsen said the company is also updating its logo to celebrate its change of ownership (fall 2021), its 45th anniversary and a continued commitment to continuing the legacy of NoKota Packers Inc. and its values of quality, integrity and service.
NoKota Packers is in a good spot right now and moving forward with its potato supply, Olsen said.
“Demand has been really good the entire season on both red and yellow potatoes, so it takes the pressure off the North Dakota shippers to move product during the second half of the season,” she said.
Holiday boost
Olsen said potatoes hold a unique position as a holiday staple, consistently outperforming other ingredients in the festive culinary lineup.
“Potatoes are cost-effective and widely available, making them an easy choice for families preparing large holiday meals,” Olsen said. “Their extended shelf life allows for advance purchasing and preparation during busy holiday schedules. Potatoes cater to a broad audience, including vegans, vegetarians and omnivores. Whether dressed up with dairy or seasoned with plant-based ingredients, they suit various dietary preferences, ensuring everyone at the table can enjoy them.”
The diverse uses for potatoes range from creamy mashed potatoes and crispy roasted wedges to buttery scalloped potatoes and latkes.
“This adaptability makes them an indispensable component in diverse cultural and regional celebrations,” Olsen said. “ Holiday meals are steeped in tradition, and potatoes are often tied to cherished family recipes passed down through generations. This emotional connection enhances their appeal, making them more than just a side dish; they’re a holiday centerpiece.”
Even though potatoes boast versatility, affordability and universal appeal, consumption could increase if consumers knew the nutritional benefits potatoes bring, Olsen said.
“Many consumers overlook [potatoes’] nutritional benefits, such as being rich in potassium, vitamin C and fiber [when eaten with the skin],” Olsen said. “Shifting this perception requires better education on healthy preparation methods.”
Convenience is important to consumers, and some consumers perceive potatoes as time-consuming to prepare compared to precooked or prepackaged alternatives like rice or pasta.
“While frozen and pre-cut potato products address this issue, awareness and adoption of these options could be improved,” Olsen said.
Broader market trends include smaller pack sizes, such as 1- or 3-pound packs, a shift to more yellow offerings, convenience packs like steamables, microwave options and pre-cut, and transitioning to more sustainable packaging options like recyclable, biodegradable or paper, Olsen said.
