Tyson Foods, Inc. plans to build a $320 million poultry complex in eastern Kansas.
The company will construct a processing plant, hatchery, and feed mill near the city of Tonganoxie, which it said will employ approximately 1,600 people and contract with northeast Kansas farmers and ranchers to raise chickens, according to a press release.
“We believe this new operation, which will incorporate the latest production technology, will enable us to meet the sustained growth in consumer demand for fresh chicken” said Tom Hayes, President and CEO.
The operation is currently scheduled to begin production in mid-2019.
The poultry plant will be capable of processing 1.25 million birds per week, increasing Tyson Foods’ overall production capacity, and will produce pre-packaged trays of fresh chicken for retail grocery stores nationwide.
With the economic benefits and added jobs coming out of the facility, Governor Sam Brownback said, “Growing Kansas means we must grow the food and agriculture sector which accounts for nearly 45 percent of the state’s economy. This is a step in the right direction to further diversify and grow our state’s economy.”
The Governor also emphasized the importance of local-level support for economic development. “Kansas is known throughout the world for our commitment to animal agriculture and for our communities, which offer an exceptional place for companies of this quality to find a talented workforce in a business-friendly environment.”
Tyson Foods anticipates purchasing about 300 acres of property south of Tonganoxie. Farmers and ranchers who have interest in raising chickens for the new poultry complex are encouraged to go to www.growwithtyson.com for more information.
