Mexican Original Plant Plans $7M Expansion
Fayetteville, Ark. – Jan. 5, 2012 – Tyson Foods, Inc. will soon conclude a multi-million dollar line expansion at its Mexican Original tortilla plant in Fayetteville.
The expansion, which is estimated to cost $7 million, will create two additional lines that will produce a new item for a national foodservice customer. Tyson officials said the expansion will eventually require an additional 60 people be hired to run the lines for three shifts. The timeline for hiring is early- to mid-January. The plant currently employs about 500 people.
The project has involved the renovation of approximately 120,000 square feet of space and the installation of new machinery. The plant will also receive some upgrades to restrooms and break room areas.
“We’re excited about producing this new product in partnership with our customer,” said Richard Irvin, complex manager of Mexican Original. “We helped them develop a product that meets their needs and should help grow their business. This is a textbook example of us seeking to be our customers’ go-to supplier.”
The Fayetteville Mexican Original plant is one of Tyson Foods’ three dedicated tortilla operations. The others are in Portland, Ind., and Sanford, N.C. Mexican Original is the nation’s second largest manufacturer of tortillas, which are sold to foodservice and restaurant customers.
About Tyson Foods
Tyson Foods, Inc. (NYSE: TSN), founded in 1935 with headquarters in Springdale, Arkansas, is one of the world's largest processors and marketers of chicken, beef and pork, the second-largest food production company in the Fortune 500 and a member of the S&P 500. The company produces a wide variety of protein-based and prepared food products and is the recognized market leader in the retail and foodservice markets it serves. Tyson provides products and services to customers throughout the United States and more than 130 countries. The company has approximately 115,000 Team Members employed at more than 400 facilities and offices in the United States and around the world. Through its Core Values, Code of Conduct and Team Member Bill of Rights, Tyson strives to operate with integrity and trust and is committed to creating value for its shareholders, customers and Team Members. The company also strives to be faith-friendly, provide a safe work environment and serve as stewards of the animals, land and environment entrusted to it.
Forward Looking Statements
This release includes forward-looking statements as well as historical information. These forward-looking statements may include statements relating to timing and cost of plant expansion, future employment and customers. Actual results may vary. Factors that could cause actual results to differ from those in the forward-looking statements include, but are not limited to: consumer demand and perceptions; foreseeable or unforeseeable construction delays; customer requests and requirements; and the ability to compete in products and prices in a competitive industry.
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Contact:
Worth Sparkman, Tyson Foods, 479-290-6358, worth.sparkman@tyson.com