JACKSON, Miss. — Tyson Foods is investing $61 million in its Vicksburg, Miss., poultry plant as part of the company’s commitment to meet increasing demand for protein and deliver on its strategy of accelerating long-term growth of the Tyson retail brand, officials noted. The expansion will create nearly 50 jobs.
“For three decades, Tyson Foods has been a valued employer and major economic contributor in Warren County,” said Mississippi Gov. Tate Reeves. “The company’s ongoing investments in its Vicksburg operations are a testament to Mississippi’s strong business environment and capable workforce.”
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.
“The demand for convenient, high-quality chicken products continues to grow and there is no brand more trusted than Tyson — we are pleased to invest in our business as we invest in the great state of Mississippi,” David Bray, group president, poultry, Tyson Foods, said. “We’d like to thank the Mississippi Development Authority and Warren County for their assistance and support of this project.”
The Vicksburg facility employs approximately 500 people and paid more than $17 million in wages during its 2020 fiscal year. The facility has a local economic impact of $58 million annually. Tyson recently raised total compensation for team members, including raising hourly wages at the facility to at least $15 an hour.
The Mississippi Development Authority is providing assistance for infrastructure improvements. Warren County and Entergy Mississippi are also assisting with the project.
“Tyson is a company that is well-known for providing top-quality chicken and other food products to consumers, and Mississippi is proud to play a role in the company’s continued success,” said MDA Interim Executive Director Laura Hipp. “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.”
The expansion is expected to be complete by next summer.
