CASTROVILLE, Calif. – (October 21, 2008) – Ocean Mist Farms, the largest grower of fresh artichokes in the country, recently received a 2008 Category Excellence Award from Supermarket News magazine.

The award recognizes companies that are meeting retailer needs, said Kori Tuggle, market manager. The winners were chosen by Supermarket News editors based on feedback from retailers, who voted via a survey and participated in interviews.

For the fresh produce category, Ocean Mist Farms was recognized for its marketing/promotions support -- which included in-store product demos and grower appearances to help boost sales -- as well as innovation in packaging. This year Ocean Mist Farms introduced new stickers for its artichokes that complied with the new country of origin labeling requirements imposed by the United States Department of Agriculture.

"It is an honor to be recognized by our retail customers along with other respected brand names such as Coca-Cola and Kellogg’s as a category leader," Tuggle said. "The award encourages us to raise the bar in our marketing efforts and continue to support our customers’ in order to promote sales."