HUNTSVILLE, Ala. — Aviagen plans to begin construction on a brand-new, Texas-based hatchery in September 2021 because of strong demand for broiler breeding stock throughout North America and the globe.
According to Aviagen’s Vice President of Operations Jason Mack, Longview was chosen for its proximity to regional and international airports, and its biosecure location away from other bird populations.
“After a long, research-intensive search for the ideal location for our new hatchery, we unanimously chose Longview, Texas, a city with a robust labor pool, good work ethic of its citizens and a strong infrastructure for agribusiness,” Mack said. “We are looking forward to becoming part of Longview and doing our part to promote the success of this thriving community.”
Longview, Texas, will become the nineth member of its North American hatchery fleet — its first in the state of Texas. Slated for completion in July 2022, the state-of-the-art hatchery will represent an estimated investment of $27 million and bring 95 new full-time jobs to the Longview area. With the ability to set 1.1 million eggs per week, the parent stock hatchery will supply customers both domestically in North America and internationally.
“Even throughout the pandemic, our North American customers have enjoyed a strong demand for healthy, affordable chicken meat,” said Marc de Beer, president of Aviagen North America. “We are committed to securing the supply of quality Parent Stock to help our customers put food on the tables of families throughout North America and around the world. The new hatchery in Longview will play a big part in this goal.”
Natalie Lynch, Longview Economic Development Corporation board chairman sees the new facility as a significant plus for East Texas’ job market.
“Aviagen will bring a diverse set of jobs to our community, which will be great for our workforce,” said Lynch. “This project is also further evidence that Longview is on the map for global companies and that makes us very excited for the future of city.”
