Leading bakery manufacturer and ingredients supplier Dawn Foods, through its Dawn Distribution Advantage (DDA) network, has announced Ardent Mills and D’Bazo as its North America vendors of the year for 2023.

The DDA is a customer-focused buying cooperative consisting of Dawn Foods’ distribution centers and independent distributor partners. Each year, the DDA recognizes vendors that deliver growth and provide outstanding partnership for bakery customers across the region.

D'Bazo, a valued Dawn partner since 2000, is recognized for its outstanding partnership and premium Dulce de Leche product that has not only impressed customers in the artisanal and retail bakery channel but is also making waves in the foodservice and supermarket channels.

“D’Bazo is an exceptional partner that continues to impress with their commitment to reliability and operational excellence,” says Paul Caske vice president national technical sales – chairman of the board, DDA. “Delia and team have worked diligently to ensure all of our orders arrive on time and in full, a true testament to their professionalism and partnership.”

“This award is the result of teamwork with Dawn Foods, and we are thankful to be recognized with this achievement,” says Delia Bazo, owner, D’Bazo. “Our partnership with Dawn provides us with the leadership and success needed to help deliver for our mutual clients in the United States. Having premium products is not enough without the support of an outstanding group of people getting involved at all levels; from the production process all the way to the end consumer. We cannot thank Dawn Foods enough for the opportunity they provide us year after year in successfully reaching our goals.”

Ardent Mills, a partner of Dawn Foods for over 25 years, is recognized as Vendor of the Year for its commitment to continuous improvement and partnership.

Throughout 2023, Ardent Mills continued to increase efficiencies in their facilities and optimize their network. Additionally, the company's commitment to product expertise remained evident through comprehensive product trainings and selling materials to aid bakers in the selection of the best flour for their applications.

“Ardent Mills generously provides technical training for our customers and commercial team to ensure everyone throughout the supply chain is equipped with the skills and insights needed for success,” Caske says. “Whether fielding questions from customers or guiding us through a comprehensive new crop transition process, their support has been instrumental in ensuring that our mixes maintain consistent performance and our customers have everything they need to be successful.”

“Without a doubt, Dawn is a valued and trusted partner. On behalf of the 17 mills that stand shoulder to shoulder with Dawn and every dedicated Ardent Mills team member who is devoted to serving Dawn, we extend our heartfelt gratitude for this recognition. We look forward to elevating our partnership in the years that lie ahead," says Dan Dye, chief executive officer of Ardent Mills.

Ardent Mills and D’Bazo were also recognized as Vendor of the Year award winners in 2021 and 2022, respectively.