Request Foods said it has begun processing and co-packing frozen skillet meal products now that a second, 230,000-sq.-ft. plant, the company's second location in Holland, Mich., is operational. Officials say Request's new lines complement its long-standing entree and side dish processing involving pans and trays.

“Our entry into the skillet meal market has been very deliberate,” said Vice President Steve Dewitt. “We are dedicated to offering our customers the full range of culinary R&D, high quality sourcing and made from scratch production that we’re known for in frozen pan entrees and side dishes. We wanted to do it right, and this facility showcases our commitment to quality.”


Following its move to a new corporate headquarters, Little Lady Foods said it completed a new culinary center at its Elk Grove Village, Ill., headquarters, near Chicago. The company specializes in frozen premium pizzas, gourmet sandwiches and hand-held items for foodservice, private label retail and contract customers.

Officials said the new center features two kitchens: one for product ideation, recipe development, testing and quality control; and a showcase kitchen for customer presentations and collaboration.

"At Little Lady Foods, we understand that creativity and innovation is the key to our success and our clients' success," said co-CEO Dan Geocaris. "Our culinary R&D team and executive chefs are experts in the design of fresh creations unique to each our customers. This new culinary center provides our experts with the appropriate tools to continue to build on that success and plan for the future."