Fair Oaks Foods’ US$134M bacon facility project resumes

USA – Fair Oaks Foods has announced the resumption of its ambitious US$134 million bacon processing plant in Davenport, Iowa, following a year-long delay. 

The construction, which began in the summer of 2022, was temporarily halted due to issues related to labor shortages and updated financial forecasts. 

However, the project is now back on track, with revised completion schedules being established by the company and local authorities.

The new facility, spanning 150,000 square feet, is set to generate 250 new jobs and enhance Fair Oaks Foods’ production capabilities. 

As a family-owned enterprise known for its diverse range of protein products—such as bacon, meatballs, pork, and turkey sausage—the company aims to leverage this new plant to expand its offerings in fully cooked bacon. 

This development is anticipated to boost the company’s market presence significantly.

Originally, the plant was expected to be completed by early 2023. 

Nevertheless, it is now projected to have an annual economic impact of US$182 million on the Quad Cities region, as reported by the Quad Cities Chamber of Commerce. 

The construction progress has been noted, with a permit for a new US$43 million building covering 134,000 square feet issued in January 2024.

Additionally, an official update to the city council confirmed that while the project has resumed, it is running behind schedule and may require adjustments to tax agreements.

Fair Oaks Foods, which achieved peak revenues of US$250 million in 2023, employs approximately 550 staff members. 

As the 11th largest Black-owned business in the U.S., Fair Oaks Foods has been producing and supplying a variety of protein products since its founding in 1985. 

The new facility will further support the company’s goal to serve food service sectors, national grocery chains, and quick-service restaurants globally. 

Tami Petsche, Vice President of Business & Economic Growth at the Quad Cities Chamber, emphasized the project’s significant economic contribution to the region, highlighting the anticipated hiring of 247 employees across various roles, including production, warehousing, and plant management.