RICH'S MISSION STATEMENT

JOHN KAROLEFSKI

Two years ago, Rich Products Corp. unveiled a philosophy and business strategy called Mission: World Class. Calling it a "map to the future," Bob Rich Jr., president, aimed to set new standards for customer satisfaction and to reach new levels of competitive success.

"Mission: World Class is much, much more than any total quality program or here-today-gone-tomorrow trend," he explains. "It's Rich Products' way of business life which will define our corporation for decades to come." Says Don Torgersen, executive vice president of the food group: "What we've done with all the strategies is really figured out how to take every one of our 6,000 associates and give them more tools to use in the execution of their business. It was a cultural change in the company."

Here's how Rich Products defines the components:

Impress Customers: "Provide exceptional service to our external and internal customers the first time and every time."

Improve, Improve, Improve!: "Continuously improve the quality and value of the goods we produce and services we provide."

Empower People: "Unleash the talents of all our associates by creating an environment that is safe, that recognizes and rewards their achievements, and encourages their participation and growth."

Work Smarter: "Drive out all waste of time, effort and material -- all the barriers and extra steps that keep us from doing our jobs right." · Do the Right Thing: "Maintain the highest standards of integrity and ethical conduct and behave as good citizens in our communities."