Tyson Foods To Invest $61 Million in Poultry Plant Expansion

JACKSON, Miss. – A rebound in consumer demand for chicken is prompting Tyson Foods to spend $61 million to expand its Vicksburg, Mississippi poultry plant.

The company said in a press release that the expansion is part of Tyson Foods’ commitment to meet the increase in demand and deliver on its strategy for accelerating long-term growth.

Once the expansion is completed, the plant, which already employs about 500 people, will welcome about 50 more.

Mississippi Gov. Tate Reeves welcomed the economic development news by observing that “for three decades, Tyson Foods has been a valued employer and major economic contributor in Warren County,” the community in which the plant is located.

“The company’s ongoing investments in its Vicksburg operations are a testament to Mississippi’s strong business environment and capable workforce,” the governor said.

Laura Hill, interim executive director of the Mississippi Development Authority said the latest expansion by Tyson in Vicksburg “demonstrates how Mississippi’s hard-working citizens and robust portfolio of competitive advantages combine to ensure companies enjoy long-term success and growth in the Magnolia State.” 

Tyson’s Vicksburg facility makes fully cooked chicken products for foodservice and retail customers. The expansion will increase production capacity of chicken products for foodservice customers such as restaurants and schools.

According to the state of Mississippi, the Tyson Foods facility in VIcksburg paid more than $17 million in wages during the 2020 fiscal year, and the facility has a local economic impact of about $58 million annually.

The Mississippi Development Authority also noted Tyson Foods recently raised total compensation for team members, including raising hourly wages at the facility to at least $15 an hour.