KANSAS CITY, Mo. – Smithfield Foods gave members of the Kansas City Barbecue Society (KCBS) a new incentive to use the company’s products during KCBS-sanctioned events.

The Smokin’ with Smithfield loyalty program offers an opportunity to win $5,000 in cash prizes to competition barbecue teams that commit to cooking with Smithfield products in both the pork and rib categories. The program also offers $180 for each perfect score of 180 points received from judges. Smithfield recently announced the loyalty program at the society’s 30th Annual Awards Banquet.


“We want to expand our connection with such dedicated barbecue enthusiasts. We congratulate KCBS on 30 years of excellence and look forward to our continued partnership to drive excitement among the KCBS member audience,” said Emily Detwiler, Smithfield senior brand manager.

Smithfield also announced History BBQ the winner of the company’s Great Rib Rivalry. Historic BBQ will serve as Smithfield’s sponsored team for the 2016 competitive barbecue season.

The Kansas City Barbecue Society is the world's largest organization of barbecue and grilling enthusiasts with more than 20,000 members and 50,000 volunteers worldwide. The non-profit KCBS sanctions more than 450 barbecue contests in 34 countries.

“As the competition BBQ industry continues to grow and expand, it’s exciting to see innovative programs like this from Smithfield to help us continue to evolve,” said Mike McCloud, national marketing and partnership advisor for NCBS. “This is one of the most passionate and loyal enthusiast groups in the world, so we are delighted to work with visionary companies like Smithfield to connect with competitors and enthusiasts, and reward them along the way.”