Carolina Turkeys was recognized by Panera Bread as its 2006 Supplier of the Year at an awards ceremony in Charlotte, N.C. on Sunday, May 6.

The award recognized Carolina Turkeys’ dedication to quality and service throughout its eight-year relationship with Panera Bread. A high-volume supplier for the restaurant chain, Carolina Turkeys’ deli meats are featured more than seven times on the Panera menu.

“We are proud and honored to be recognized by Panera Bread, which is one of our fastest growing foodservice customers,” says Dan Blackshear, former Carolina Turkeys president and CEO and current president of sales and marketing for Butterball, LLC. “This award is a testament to our company’s commitment to quality deli meats and superior customer service. We value our relationship with Panera Bread and look forward to helping them strengthen and grow their business throughout the U.S.”

“Carolina Turkeys and Panera Bread have a strong relationship that has contributed to the quality of the menu Panera offers,” says Mark Borland, chief supply chain officer for Panera, LLC. “Carolina’s commitment to the taste and

flavor is backed by an outstanding team of people whose work helps us deliver sandwiches that meet the high standards that customers have come to expect from Panera Bread.”