SIOUX FALLS, SD (October 26, 2015) – As part of its continued commitment to improving rural health and employee wellness, POET, one of the world’s largest ethanol producers, is opening fitness centers at each plant location across its seven operating states.

POET opened its first “Energy Center” at the Sioux Falls headquarters in 2011, which served as the impetus for expanding to plants. Increasing access to physical fitness is an integral component of POET’s larger health program, Energy for Life, which focuses on fostering a well-rounded view of wellness as it relates to people’s real-life experiences.

“The health of our team members is a top priority,” POET CEO Jeff Lautt said. “A workplace focused on holistic wellness – including the mind, body and spirit – helps the company thrive and prosper, and the opening of these new Energy Centers signifies our continued commitment to the Energy for Life program.”

The 24-hour all-access Energy Centers will be open to POET employees at no cost and include state of the art cardio machines from Life Fitness such as treadmills and stationary bikes, as well as a weight set and stretching area. POET also plans to integrate video training, weekly challenges and workout classes for employees.

September and October marked the opening of Energy Centers in Gowrie, IA; Groton, SD; Hudson, SD; Mitchell, SD and Leipsic, OH. The remaining facilities will be launched throughout the duration of the year and early 2016.

According to a 2014 report by the Rural Health Reform Policy Research Center, residents of rural counties have the highest rates of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, obesity and physical inactivity, as well as death among children and young adults.

To combat this, POET has placed an emphasis on fitness and nutrition programs and offers free onsite health screenings, annual blood and biometric screenings, and one-on-one health consultations.

“The fuel we produce at POET plants improves the health of our environment, our economy and our nation’s security,” said Jeff Broin, POET Founder and Executive Chairman. “The health of our team members is just as important. As a society, we must do more to renew our body and mind. These Energy Centers are a great step in that direction.”

Team Energy Leaders were selected at each plant location to promote health and wellness initiatives. Each plant is also equipped with educational materials including health tips and recipes for the family.

About POET

POET, one of the world’s largest ethanol producers, is a leader in biorefining through its efficient, vertically integrated approach to production. The 28-year-old company has a production capacity in excess of 1.7 billion gallons of ethanol and 9 billion pounds of high-protein animal feed annually from its network of 27 production facilities. POET, through its joint venture with DSM, also operates a commercial-scale cellulosic ethanol plant in Emmetsburg, Iowa. For more information, visit http://www.poet.com.