LaFayette, Georgia — July 29, 2025 — Pilgrim’s, one of the world’s largest poultry and prepared foods companies, has announced a major $400 million investment in Georgia, unveiling plans to build a state-of-the-art prepared foods facility in LaFayette, Walker County. The multi-phase project is expected to generate more than 630 jobs once fully operational, marking a significant expansion of the company’s U.S. footprint.
“Georgia’s No. 1 industry of agriculture continues to drive growth with companies like Pilgrim’s creating quality jobs in communities like LaFayette,” said Governor Brian Kemp. “This new facility reflects Georgia’s continued momentum in food manufacturing and innovation.”
The new facility, to be located in the Walker County Business Park, will produce a range of fully cooked chicken products under brands including Just Bare, Gold Kist, and Pilgrim’s. Construction on the first phase is expected to begin in fall 2025, with hiring set to start in 2027.
“This significant investment underscores our long-term growth strategy and our commitment to Georgia,” said Pilgrim’s CEO Fabio Sandri. “As demand for convenient, high-quality chicken products continues to grow in both retail and foodservice, this facility will help us meet that demand while delivering economic value to the region.”
Boosting Georgia’s Poultry Economy
Pilgrim’s already plays a major role in Georgia’s poultry sector, supporting around 7,500 jobs across seven production facilities, feed mills, and hatcheries. The new plant is set to accelerate growth in the prepared foods division—a segment that has seen rapid expansion in recent years due to shifting consumer preferences toward ready-to-eat meals and high-protein snacks.
“The addition of 630 jobs will be transformative for our community,” said LaFayette Mayor and Walker County Development Authority Chairman Andy Arnold. “Pilgrim’s has a proven record of investing in communities, and we welcome them as a long-term partner.”
Walker County Chairwoman and CEO Angie Teems echoed the sentiment: “This project provides much-needed employment and economic stability. Pilgrim’s decision to expand here reinforces our region’s agricultural roots and our ability to support a strong, sustainable food industry.”
State Support and Strategic Partnerships
The Georgia Department of Economic Development (GDEcD), in partnership with the Walker County Development Authority and Georgia Quick Start, played a central role in securing the project.
“Pilgrim’s expansion is another example of how Georgia’s strategic assets—like a skilled workforce and robust logistics infrastructure—make us a hub for agribusiness investment,” said GDEcD Commissioner Pat Wilson. “Congratulations to Walker County for helping bring this major economic development win to life.”
A Strategic Move for Pilgrim’s
The LaFayette facility is part of Pilgrim’s broader strategy to scale its value-added products in North America. With consumer demand surging for heat-and-eat poultry options, Pilgrim’s is doubling down on innovation and infrastructure.
By choosing LaFayette, the company also deepens its ties to the Southeast—one of the country’s leading regions for poultry production and logistics.
About Pilgrim’s
Pilgrim’s is a global leader in poultry and prepared food products, operating across the U.S., Mexico, the U.K., and Europe. The company serves major retailers, restaurants, and foodservice operators with high-quality, sustainable protein solutions.
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