Bonduelle implements inclusive hiring at all fresh facilities in the U.S. 

Bonduelle Fresh Americas, the U.S.-based, wholly owned subsidiary of Bonduelle and home of Ready Pac Bistro, has launched an inclusive hiring model in its facilities nationwide. The national implementation of the new model is part of a companywide commitment to supporting people in neighboring communities by removing structural barriers to employment and creating a more diverse and inclusive workforce, said the Irwindale, Calif.-based company.

“The inclusive hiring approach moves away from traditional hiring and employee screening processes to give anyone seeking employment the opportunity and support they need to flourish at Bonduelle,” said the company.

This model enables those who experience life challenges, such as homelessness or past incarceration or drug dependency, to join the Bonduelle team, and provides all employees with personalized resources to help manage through these challenges. 

“After the success of our inclusive hiring model in regional markets, we are proud to implement this program on a national scale,” Andrea G. Montagna, CEO of Bonduelle Fresh Americas, said in a news release. “Adopting this progressive model will reduce barriers to employment for those facing difficult situations in the communities we serve and provide them with the stable work and resources needed to thrive, and in turn, help our communities thrive.”  

The program will go into effect at upcoming hiring events on-site at each of the company’s four facilities on May 23 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. local time at the addresses below: 

• 4401 Foxdale St., Irwindale, Calif.  
• 700 Railroad Ave., Florence, N.J.
• 148 Riverview Park Rd, Jackson, Ga.
• 101 Arlington Blvd., Swedesboro, N.J.

Candidates can now apply at Bonduelle Fresh Americas facilities nationally without resumes, background checks or drug screens, said the company. Applicants must provide only valid identification and proof of eligibility to work in the U.S. Documents can include a driver’s license, state-issued identification and a social security card or U.S. passport.

“Implementing inclusive hiring in Irwindale and beyond signals our belief in the positive impact we can have on our employees and the communities we serve,” Chief Human Resources Officer Katie Lopez said. “We know how important having employment is to building a life, and we are excited to open our doors and provide support to help more people succeed in doing that.”  

To promote the success of those hired under this model, the company has taken a holistic approach, combining comprehensive on-the-job training with access to work and life services to support life skills such as establishing a bank account or navigating dependent care issues, the company added. Leaders have received additional training and will check in regularly with their new employees to discuss progress and growth opportunities. 

Bonduelle first implemented its inclusive hiring model in its Rochester, N.Y., facility in August 2021 and found continued success with the program in March 2022 within its Florence, N.J., facility. 

“As former Secretary of Labor, I welcome opportunities for creating innovative workforce systems to help job seekers by removing structural barriers to employment. Inclusive hiring not only helps local workers but supports our businesses by ensuring they have the skilled workers they need,” Los Angeles County Supervisor Hilda L. Solis said. Solis represents the Irwindale area and served as Secretary of Labor under President Barack Obama.

“I applaud Bonduelle as they take a step forward in reducing barriers to employment and making it clear that career pathways in our local economy are important,” added Solis.