Grecian Delight Foods Receives Illinois Family Business of the Year Community Service Award From Loyola University

CHICAGO, Dec. 7, 2010 /PRNewswire/ -- Grecian Delight Foods, a leading national manufacturer and marketer of Mediterranean-inspired foods based in Elk Grove Village, Ill., today announced they are the recipient of the Loyola University Chicago Family Business Center's 2010 Family Business Community Service Award.

The company received the award for its continuing partnership with the Greater Chicago Food Depository and Operation Blessings. Since 2005, the company has donated 55,000 pounds of food annually to the disadvantaged citizens of Chicago.  The company also donates an estimated 5,000 pounds of food annually to churches in the Chicago area.  In addition, in 2008, long after the initial rush of support for victims of 2005's Hurricane Katrina, Grecian Delight Foods continued to stand with them by donating to the continuing relief effort with over 36,000 pounds of food.

Grecian Delight Foods was also recognized for its recycling, waste reduction, and sustainability efforts.  The company has reduced municipal waste by 66%, increased recyclable materials by 50%, and is recognized as a US EPA Waste Wise Program Partner.  Waste Wise is a voluntary program where a business commits to reduce waste, and reports efforts publically on a monthly and annual basis based against performance criteria.  

"The entire Grecian Delight Foods community is grateful for this award, which acknowledges company-wide initiatives supporting our shared values," said Peter Parthenis, Jr., President and CEO. "When my father built the company over many years, he created a business model centered on quality, heritage and philanthropy. It's a model we intend to continue."

About Grecian Delight Foods: Founded in 1974, Grecian Delight Foods offers a full line of Mediterranean-inspired artisan flatbreads, signature sauces and spreads, specialty meats, cheeses, appetizers, main dishes and desserts to the foodservice and retail markets. There are over 300 individual items/SKUs in their total assortment. Grecian Delight Foods is represented by over 350 distributors, 60 brokers and a direct sales force. An innovative, quality leader, the company prides itself on its ability to provide menu solutions to all customer segments supported by unique merchandising programs. A major expansion is underway with the completion of a new 130,000 sq. ft. baking facility in early 2011.

SOURCE Grecian Delight Foods