State unveils new trademark for agricultural products / LJWorld.com

Archive for Tuesday, August 5, 2008

August 5, 2008

The new "Simply Kansas" trademark program is part of the state's newest effort to promote products grown, made and processed in Kansas.

Topeka — After 30 years of offering agricultural products under the "From the Land of Kansas" trademark, the state is shifting to "Simply Kansas."

The change was announced Monday by the Kansas Department of Commerce and touted by Gov. Kathleen Sebelius as the state's newest effort to promote products grown, made and processed in Kansas.

"There's clearly a demand for quality products that Kansas ag producers offer," Sebelius said in a prepared statement.

The new statewide trademark program allows Kansas producers to access marketing and technical assistance, educational opportunities, and permission to use the "Simply Kansas" logo on packaging and promotional materials.

"Unfortunately, many of these entrepreneurs don't have the resources to promote their products on a large scale. That's where Simply Kansas can help, and that's why we're so excited about the program," Sebelius said.

Products that have 75 percent of their ingredients or processing in Kansas can apply for the new program.

"Simply Kansas" was developed after a year of research and discussions with businesses and agricultural leaders.

"We listened to a lot of stakeholders in designing this program," said Sarah Larison, Simply Kansas program manager.

Members of the "From the Land of Kansas" program will have to reapply for membership under "Simply Kansas."