Buxton, N.D.-based NoKota Packers Inc. had an exciting year of innovation in 2025 on the heels of the company observing its 45th anniversary, says Carissa Olsen, president and CEO.
The company marked the occasion by launching a new logo that reflects its heritage in the Red River Valley and its commitment to quality and sustainability, she says.
NoKota Packers has also invested in significant equipment upgrades over the past couple of years, Olsen explains. These have included the modernization of a long-serving packing line, adding a robotic palletizer and updating optical sorting equipment.
“These investments boost efficiency, consistency and capacity,” she says.
The firm also is promoting a sustainability initiative that highlights “perfectly good imperfect potatoes” to help reduce food waste while educating consumers about value in produce that doesn’t always meet retail cosmetic standards, Olsen says.
Customers can pick potatoes at the company’s Buxton location that have been deemed unsaleable but are perfectly edible, she says. NoKota Packers donated more than $500 to local food banks from the proceeds of those potatoes in November and December.
“We offer the potatoes at a considerable discount but also note that if customers are unable to pay, they are still welcome to come and pick,” she adds.
On the social media scene, the company has refreshed its Facebook content and added an Instagram profile to help highlight activities in the plant, celebrate employee anniversaries, promote walk-in cash sales and other things being done in and around the community.
