USA – Tyson Foods, the world’s second-largest processor and marketer of meat, based in Arkansas America, announced plans to invest more than US$20 million in the expansion of its Tennessee facility.

The money is intended to be used in the construction of a wellness centre, an independent roadway for transporting livestock to the facility and the expansion of the facility’s production capacity.

The final two phases of the project are underway and the operations are expected to be complete by early 2023.

The initial phase of the project was started in April and constituted a 21,000 square feet expansion of an existing barn facility to a total of 60,625 square feet.

The expanded space provides a 20% increase in capacity at the facility which employs more than 600 workers.

With more capacity added, the facility will be better equipped to continue meeting the increased demand for their popular Jimmy Dean, Hillshire Farm and other category-leading products.

“I’m thrilled to celebrate our investment in our Newbern Prepared Foods plant with our hard-working, dedicated team members,” said Stan Welch, plant manager at Tyson Foods.

This is the third major investment by Tyson Foods in Tennessee in under three years. In 2020, the company completed an expansion of its poultry processing plant in Union City, Tenn., which included adding 40,000 square feet of space.

Then in 2021, it opened a new US$425 million, 370,000-square-foot complex in Humboldt, Tennessee that comprises of a processing plant, feed mill and hatchery.

Wes Morris takes charge of poultry business

The investment in Tennessee follows Wes Morris’ appointment as president of the company’s poultry business, to succeed David Bray, effective since January 27th.

Morris first joined Tyson Foods in 1999 and has since worked in multiple positions in the company such as group vice president for consumer products and president of prepared foods operations.

“Wes is a recognized leader who will help position us for continued success and the future growth of our chicken segment,” said Donnie King, Tyson Foods President and CEO.

Wes Morris aims to strengthen the company’s strategy of executing its mission of feeding the world with excellency and agility.

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