USA – Pilgrim’s Pride, a poultry company, is investing US$75 million to expand its production facility in Cold Spring, Minnesota creating an additional 130 jobs.
When construction is complete in early 2021, which will add 50,000 square feet of additional space to the plant, Pilgrim’s will be able to increase daily production of its chicken products, including its Just Bare Chicken brand.
“Today’s announced expansion is an important strategic investment for Pilgrim’s, and it will help ensure our Cold Spring facility can grow its capacity to provide premium chicken products for people across the country,” said Wesley Smith, Pilgrim’s Cold Spring complex manager.
“This news strengthens our ongoing commitment to this region, to our grower partners and of course to our team members.”
“This news strengthens our ongoing commitment to this region, to our grower partners and of course to our team members.”
Wesley Smith – Manager, Pilgrim’s Cold Spring complex
According to the Greater St. Cloud Development Corporation (GSDC), which provided details of the project, a portion of the funds will be used to improve staff facilities, including creating a new cafeteria and increasing locker room capacity.
“This was a major opportunity that needed quick actions by many organisations, all of which were committed to bringing this project to fruition. Pilgrim’s has long been a great member of this community and we’re pleased that up to 130 excellent, new jobs will be created for area residents.” Patti Gartland, president of GSDC, said.
Pilgrim’s Pride obtained the plant in Cold Spring in 2017, when the company acquired GNP Company.
In August, the GSDC brought together representatives from Pilgrim’s, the State of Minnesota, Stearns County, City of Cold Spring and Xcel Energy to discuss infrastructure and other needs.
According to Watt Poultry, these efforts led to approval earlier this week for a 10-year tax abatement by Stearns County, the City of Cold Spring and the Cold Spring School District.
Pilgrim’s currently employs nearly 1,200 team members in Cold Spring and is an active supporter of the local community, including its recent announcement of a US$575,000 investment as part of the company’s Hometown Strong initiative.
Earlier this week, Pilgrim’s was granted approval for a ten-year tax abatement by Stearns County, the City of Cold Spring and the Cold Spring School District.
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