From House of Raeford Farms website

When our parents and grandparents were in the workplace, it was often common for them to spend their entire working career with the same company. Times have changed and we do not always see the same loyalty and dedication in the labor force. However, House of Raeford Farms continuously strives to create an environment that meets the needs of their associates and encourages longevity of employment.

The “proof is in the pudding” as the old saying goes. Currently the company has over 150 total employees that have been part of the House of Raeford family for 25 years or longer. They include people like Margaret Blackman who described her 49 years as an employee at our Rose Hill, NC processing location this way: “I love the people I work with each day. I always feel good getting up and coming to work.”

Similar sentiments come from Pete Stewart, a Greenville, SC associate: “I started work at this plant over 40 years ago in 1981. The job has been very good to my family and me, and I have met a lot of good people along the way.” Elaine Crump who began with the company 38 years ago said this: “It’s close to home with wonderful benefits. This great company cares about its employees. Glad I am a person and not a number.”

There is something about recognizing associates for a job well done and providing fair compensation and good working conditions. Qualities like trust, a sense of community, good communication, an honorable company mission and culture, diversity, professional development opportunities, leadership, and caring are all part of why an employee stays with a company.

However, it is not just the responsibility of ownership and management to exhibit these behaviors. Employees must reciprocate in a like manner to create an environment of success for everyone. Daisy Barr, a 35-year production associate at the Hemingway, SC location says, “The best thing about this place are the people. They are competent, kind, and like to get things done.” Daisy also had some sage advice for the younger generation of associates: “Be on time, give your best performance, and most of all dress warm!”

Patsy Elmore, Human Resources Manager at the West Columbia, SC complex, summed up her 41 years: “House of Raeford has given me the opportunity to learn and grow in a business that continues to expand. I love working for this company. It has been my home away from home.”

Finally, Bob Johnson, CEO and owner of House of Raeford describes his approach to our associates this way, “You know the company buildings are just brick and mortar. However, what really makes this company is the people. We know everyone working with us. They are our friends. We go to church with them and see them in the grocery store. That makes all the difference.”