At General Mills, diversity isn't a policy; it's a strategy that gives us a competitive global advantage. A diverse workforce allows us to better understand and communicate with a diverse population. This gives us a competitive advantage when creating and marketing our products.

True innovation requires diversity. Studies indicate that diverse teams create more and better solutions than homogenous teams. We depend on innovation to stay ahead of our competitors and meet our growth goals.

General Mills has seven employee networks that serve as a positive forum for development, information sharing and idea exchange.

The employee networks include:

• American Indian Council
• Asian American Network
• Betty's Family (Gay & Lesbian Network)
• Black Champions Network
• Hispanic Network
• South Asian American Network
• Women's Forum

The Corporate Mentoring Program connects newly hired minority employees with more senior-level mentors. Along with forging valuable relationships, the program exposes the new employees to different areas of the company.

General Mills has won numerous awards for employer of choice including "Top 50 Companies for Latinas to Work in the U.S." and "100 Best Companies for Working Mothers." In 2001, we were recognized with Catalyst Award for outstanding initiatives for the advancement of women in the workplace.

We also value diversity externally. We aggressively seek minority suppliers to provide the services that make our products possible. We have set minority business entrepreneur purchasing goals, and we exceed them. In addition, General Mills develops relationships with national minority organizations and builds employee support and development for them.

Additional Information

To learn more, visit the Diversity section on the General Mills Web site.