AUSTIN, Minn. – In recognition of the 75th anniversary of its Spam brand, Jeffrey Ettinger, chairman, president and chief executive officer of Hormel Foods, will ring the closing bell at the New York Stock Exchange. To commemorate the milestone, Ettinger will be joined by Hormel executives and guests of the company along with “Sir Can-A-Lot,” its first corporate mascot.

“We are ringing The Closing Bell today in recognition of the longevity of this beloved brand,” Ettinger said, “as well the continued growth and success of Hormel Foods.”

According to Hormel, more than 7 billion cans of Spam have been produced and distributed globally, since its introduction in 1937. Most of the product is produced at the company’s flagship plant in Austin.

On the heels of this year’s celebration, Hormel looks forward to 2013, when it will commemorate the 50th anniversary of its Hormel Cure 81 ham, Ettinger acknowledged in a press release.

“These brands are perfect examples of innovation leading to great success, and they are just as relevant today as they were when they were first introduced,” he said. “Hormel Foods is committed to driving innovation.”