Pilgrim’s Pride Gets Green Light on $24m Investment in US Poultry Processing Complex

06 June 2016 --- Pilgrim's Pride Corporation has been given the green light for the $24m expansion project of its poultry processing complex in Kentucky, creating nearly 160 jobs, as part of the $190m investment it has designated for strategic investment.

The expansion project, which has been given approval by law makers in Kentucky, will kick off in October this year and will enable the US chicken group to expand poultry production from the site by processing bigger birds.

Pilgrim's plans to install new equipment that it says will transform it from a foodservice and deboning operation into a debone portioning facility by the July 2017. It says this will allow it to raise the weight of chicken it can process by around one million pounds a week.

More than 155 jobs will be created by the expansion project as well as supporting the building of 75 new chicken houses by local family farms.

"We're excited about the opportunities the Mayfield expansion will provide to our customers and the local community," said Bill Lovette, Pilgrim's CEO.

"This investment is a key part of our recently announced cash flow reinvestment plan to provide key customers with opportunities to accelerate sales and grow their businesses with a trusted partner."

The expansion is part of Pilgrim's $190 million strategic capital investment plan which it announced earlier this year. The funds have been set aside to enhance growth and drive revenues of its Pilgrim's Pierce Chicken brand.

"Pilgrim's, a strong corporate partner in Kentucky since 1990, has grown its business across the globe and has become a well-respected household name," said governor Matt Bevin.

"We are thankful for the company's reinvestment in Graves County. It will have tremendous impact on southwest Kentucky through new jobs, additional production and increased sales for area growers, farmers and feed suppliers. We are working every day to make the Commonwealth even more supportive of developments like this, and are grateful to Pilgrim's for leading the way for others to follow."

The poultry processing complex was set up in 1990, becoming the first poultry processing facility in the state of Kentucky.

"Today's announcement is a welcome sign for both Pilgrim's and the Mayfield community," said Eric Rotermund, Pilgrim's Mayfield complex manager.

"The expansion solidifies our presence in the state of Kentucky as a respected employer for the long term and ensures that Pilgrim's Mayfield will continue its tradition of quality products and service for years to come."