NOW Foods was honored to receive the Company of the Year award in the Large Company category from the Economic Development Authority of Western Nevada (EDAWN). Nevada Governor Brian Sandoval presented the award to NOW Health Group CEO Jim Emme.

This award, in its third year, recognizes companies that document exemplary performance in multiple categories and stand out as an overall “shining star” based on investment, job growth, corporate citizenship, commitment to sustainability, commitment to think local, and overall contribution to the community. “Contributions to the community” evaluates diversification, corporate giving, innovative employee programs, sustainability initiatives, local investments, and long-term presence in the region. Recipients are drawn from existing companies in the greater Reno-Sparks-Tahoe area.

While NOW has operated a distribution center in Sparks, Nev., for a number of years, in 2011 the decision was made to build a manufacturing facility, which brought more than 200 new jobs to the area and utilized nearly 100 local services and suppliers in Nevada in the last two years. The building NOW built is LEED Silver certified; LEED-certified buildings are designed to reduce waste sent to landfills, conserve energy and water, be safer and healthier for occupants, and reduce harmful greenhouse emissions.

Jim Emme, who has been directly involved in the Sparks facility since its inception, said “we’ve made a significant commitment to being part of the Reno-Sparks community, and are honored to be recognized for our contributions.”