LAFAYETTE, Ga. — Pilgrim’s officially broke ground on its new state-of-the-art prepared foods facility on Nov. 13 in Walker County, Ga. The company originally announced in July that they would be investing $400 million into this facility to expand its Georgia footprint.
Pilgrim’s is a leading global provider of high-quality food products, operating multiple production facilities, feed mills, and hatcheries, and, across Georgia, they support about 7,500 jobs. This new facility will create 630 more jobs for the state, the company noted in its announcement.
“Georgia’s No. 1 industry of agriculture continues to drive growth with companies like Pilgrim’s creating quality jobs in communities like LaFayette,” Georgia Gov. Brian Kemp said in a statement. “As our state’s economy continues to advance, we are excited to see these continued innovations and the opportunities they will bring for hardworking Georgians.”
“This groundbreaking represents more than just a new facility — it’s a commitment to the Walker County community and the future growth of our company,” Fabio Sandri, Pilgrims CEO, said. “This significant investment will allow further growth of our prepared foods business by expanding brands like Just Bare, Pilgrim’s, and Gold Kist, and supporting increasing demand in retail and foodservice channels. We’re proud to invest in a region that shares our values and vision for growth.”
Located in the Walker County Business Park, the facility will produce a variety of fully cooked chicken products, and, with this groundbreaking, construction will begin soon. Hiring is expected to start in 2027, aligning with the expected completion of the first phase of the 300,000-square-foot facility, the company added.
“We welcome Pilgrim’s to Walker County and LaFayette,” Andy Arnold, LaFayette mayor and chairman of the Walker County Development Authority, said. “Pilgrim’s has a wonderful history of positive community involvement, and the creation of up to 630 jobs for our area is a game changer for many families.”
“This is a tremendous opportunity for Walker County to provide stable jobs and long-term security for residents who want to work where they live,” Angie Teems, chairwoman and CEO of the Walker County Government, said. “Not only is this a well-respected company with a strong track record, but it already has a presence in our community through its partnerships with local poultry growers.”
In addition to creating jobs, Pilgrim’s will extend its signature Hometown Strong and Better Futures programs to Walker County, the company added. Through the Hometown Strong program, the company is investing more than $15 million in rural communities across the country, supporting new community centers, school improvements, athletic facilities, childcare enhancements, parks, and more.
As for the Better Futures program, it provides free community college tuition for team members and their children, helping families develop personally and professionally, the company noted. Additionally, Pilgrim’s is donating more than 700 pounds of chicken wings, tenders and breasts to Pie Slingers, a local restaurant in Walker County, to help people in need in the area, further demonstrating the company’s dedication to supporting local communities.
“At Pilgrim’s, we believe in showing up for communities — especially in challenging times,” Sandri said. “This donation is a small way we can help ensure families in Walker County have access to a warm meal and a sense of togetherness during the holiday season.”
