The National Provisioner is proud to announce our 2025 Independent Processor of the Year, Nebraska-based Den’s Country Meats. This family-owned, USDA-inspected meat processing facility and retail shop is located in Table Rock, Neb., and was founded in 1985 by Dennis Schaardt just one year after he graduated from high school.

Dennis’ wife Kim joined the business in 1993, and in 1995, the business expanded, rebranding to its current location. Now, Dennis and Kim’s daughter and son-in-law Courtney and Seth Shreve are also a big part of the business, working as plant managers. Courtney handles marketing and inventory management, while Seth manages slaughter and meat cutting.

To further explore the history of Den’s Country Meats, we consulted with Dennis and Kim Schaardt and Courtney and Seth Shreve.

The family noted that their business was born out of Dennis’ farm roots. “Dennis grew up on a farm and processed meat right on the farm as a kid. This business was both a necessity and an opportunity,” the family said. “At 19 Dennis needed a job, and his dad needed a market for his beef, and this felt like the right path. It grew from there.”

When Dennis first founded the business, he narrowed his focus on custom processing. But as his business grew and customer needs evolved, the business changed as well. Now, the family offers value-added processing. “Our mission today is to serve high-quality, innovative meat products while continuing to honor our roots in custom processing,” the family said.

Dennis first started his operations in a 2,400-square-foot building, eventually moving into their current 7,200-square-foot facility in 1996 and adding a retail space alongside gas station and convenience store services.

Recently, in 2021, the business expanded once more, adding 1,000 square feet to the slaughter floor. “Currently, we’re in the process of adding another 7,200 sq. ft. This will provide much-needed cooler and freezer space, as well as a dedicated packaging area for cooked products,” the family said.

Top sellers for Den’s Country Meats include Ring Bologna, Hot Dogs and Snack Sticks. “These products have built a loyal following and continue to be customer favorites. The Ring Bologna is the original recipe (with a few tweaks) from the original Table Rock locker that opened in 1939,” the family said. “People come from all over to try it.”

Den’s Country Meats has won numerous awards, around 1,000 in total, for its high-quality meat products at the state, national and international level. Among the many awards, notable achievements include the 2025 IFFA Awards, the American Association of Meat Processors Lifetime Achievement Award, and induction into the Cured Meats Hall of Fame.

“What truly sets our products apart is the mentorship and collaboration we've received from industry peers, our active involvement in professional associations like NAMP & AAMP, and a constant drive to learn and improve,” the family said.

As a family-owned and operated business, Den’s Country Meats focuses on a personal, local touch, extending that close connection to community outreach. “We offer more than just meat—we’re a hub in our community. We’re proud to give back and be involved locally,” the family said.

In addition to close community ties, the Schaardts and Shreves are dedicated to meat industry connection and collaboration. Dennis served as president and Kim as executive secretary of the Nebraska Association of Meat Processors for 10 years, and Dennis was on the American Association of Meat Processors Board, serving the international association twice as president.

Looking ahead, Den’s Country Meats is focused on transitioning to the next generation while pursuing growth in private label and value-added meats.