Tyson to Upgrade Georgia Poultry Plant
by January 28, 2015 12:57 pm 100 views
Tyson Foods Inc. recently announced plans to invest more than $110 million in its Vienna, Georgia, poultry plant, a move that will create more than 500 jobs at the location, according to a press release issued by Tyson.
The Vienna plant, which produces chicken for foodservice customers, including restaurant chains, is being converted to supply fresh tray pack chicken for regional retail customers. Work began at the location in mid-January and is scheduled to be completed later this year, according to the press release.
“Tyson’s decision to expand in Georgia underscores how our No. 1 business climate and highly skilled workforce keeps leading companies competitive in today’s fast-paced market,” said Georgia Gov. Nathan Deal. “Tyson Foods is one of our state’s largest employers in food processing, and I’m confident that it will continue to benefit from our top talent and robust industry network in order to deliver high-quality jobs to Georgia’s citizens.”
The project will upgrade parts of the plant and add about 100,000 square feet. Improvements will include new equipment and production lines, as well as processes and technology designed to benefit food safety, quality and workplace safety, according to a press release.
“The existing infrastructure, location and the availability of workers make the Vienna plant ideal for this expansion project,” said Noel White, Tyson’s president of poultry. “This project will improve the plant’s product mix and make it even more cost competitive.”
To assist Tyson with the expansion, the Georgia Department of Economic Development is providing qualified job tax credits for new capital investment. The state also will assist with new and existing employee training programs through the Technical College System of Georgia’s Quick Start program to help the company build and maintain its workforce.
Tyson Foods purchased the Vienna plant in 1995. The facility currently employs about 700 people.