Franklin Perdue American businessman Date of Birth: 09.05.1920 Country: USA

1. Biography of Frank Perdue
2. Founding of Perdue Farms
3. Leading the Family Business
4. Innovations and Advertising Campaigns
5. Successful Advertising Career
6. Legacy and Recognition

Biography of Frank Perdue

Frank Perdue, an American businessman, was born on May 9, 1920, in Salisbury, Maryland. He became the president and CEO of 'Perdue Farms', currently one of the largest poultry producers in the United States.

Founding of Perdue Farms

'Perdue Farms' was founded in the same year by Arthur Perdue and his wife Pearl Perdue, who initially ran a small chicken farm. In 1939, their son Frank joined the family business after dropping out of Salisbury State University, where he had been studying. At that time, he became the third employee of 'Perdue Farms'.

Leading the Family Business

Frank Perdue took over the leadership of the family enterprise and served as its president for many years. In 1991, he handed over the reins of the company to his son, Jim Perdue. Under Frank's guidance, 'Perdue Farms' became the first well-recognized brand among poultry producers in the United States, thanks to his visionary marketing strategies.

Innovations and Advertising Campaigns

'Perdue Farms' developed a unique feed for chickens that included calendula flowers, giving the chicken skin a distinctive golden-yellow hue. In 1971, the company launched its first major advertising campaign and signed a contract with the firm 'McCabe Scoves'. The advertising agency suggested that Frank Perdue himself appear in the commercials, promoting the company's products with the slogan "It takes a tough man to make a tender chicken." This decision was considered surprising and even radical at the time, as CEOs typically did not represent their own companies.

Successful Advertising Career

The first commercial, filmed in Salisbury City Park, was a great success and was recognized as one of the best advertising campaigns of the year by 'Advertising Age' magazine. Frank Perdue went on to appear in over 200 television commercials for 'Perdue Farms', despite being known for his shyness in his personal life. In many of these commercials, Perdue surprisingly encouraged people to voice any complaints or dissatisfaction with 'Perdue Farms' products, concluding with the phrase "Say whatever you have to say; I can take it."

Legacy and Recognition

Frank Perdue is credited with creating the first brand among chicken meat and related product manufacturers. In 1986, The Franklin P. Perdue School of Business was established at Salisbury University in his honor. Frank Perdue passed away on March 31, 2005, at the age of 84.