Krakus Ham Train Rolls Into Chicago

CHICAGO  – Krakus, "The True Imported Polish Ham," is proud to be the #1 deli ham in Chicago, according to Nielsen Perishable Group. Thanks to loyal fans, Krakus continues to lead the deli ham category in the Windy City with nearly 50% market share*. To show its appreciation, Krakus is celebrating in a fun and unique way by wrapping two of the city's Blue Line train cars in a special design reminiscent of its one-of-a-kind, delicious ham.

"This is a very innovative and exciting project for Krakus," said Mike Sargent, Senior Brand Manager, Krakus. "Chicago has been such a great market for us and we have a 48.3% market share of deli ham in Chicago*, we'd love to get to 50%! The Chicago's Blue Line train will be turning heads in Krakus colors and we can't wait to see it rolling through town. We encourage ham lovers to join in the fun by sharing their encounters on Twitter @Krakusham."

Commuters will also have an opportunity to share in the Krakus Ham Train excitement. Beginning on August 20, Krakus will commemorate Chicago's best-tasting train by giving away special merchandise, coupons and tickets to the Taste of Polonia Festival along the Blue Line's Jefferson Park and Damen stops. The giveaways will take place on each Thursday and Friday leading into the festival.

On September 6, during the Taste of Polonia festival weekend, every rider on board the Blue Line Krakus Ham Train will join Krakus in helping the community. Krakus will donate 25 cents, up to $10,000, to the Copernicus Foundation for each passenger riding the Krakus Ham Train from 10 AM to 5 PM. The Copernicus Foundation is a non-profit organization serving Chicago since 1979. Supporting Chicago's large Polish population, community events on the Northwest side and Performing Arts are the heart of the Foundation's mission.

"Krakus is committed to giving back and supporting the Polish community," Sargent said. "We're pleased to provide Copernicus Foundation with this contribution. We appreciate all of the Krakus fans who ride the train for making this possible."

For more information on Krakus and the Krakus Ham Train campaign, please log onto KrakusFoods.com or follow the Krakus Twitter page @KrakusHam.

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About Smithfield Foods

Smithfield Foods is a $15 billion global food company and the world's largest pork processor and hog producer. In the United States, the company is also the leader in numerous packaged meats categories with popular brands including Smithfield®, Eckrich®, Farmland®, Armour®, Cook's®, John Morrell®, Gwaltney®, Nathan's Famous®, Kretschmar®, Margherita®, Curly's®, Carando® and Healthy Ones®. Smithfield Foods is committed to providing good food in a responsible way and maintains robust animal care, community involvement, employee safety, environmental and food safety and quality programs. For more information, visit www.smithfieldfoods.com.

About Krakus

Crafted with care and expertise in Poland, Krakus is authentic Polish Ham. Krakus is cured naturally with only the finest hand-selected ingredients and recipes passed down through centuries. The result is truly delectable. A one-of-a-kind, mouthwatering taste only experienced with true imported Polish ham. Treat your family to the incomparable taste of Krakus, ideal for sandwiches, salads and other recipes. Accept no imitations. For unrivaled quality and unsurpassed flavor, there is only Krakus.

Source: Smithfield Foods