August 23, 2022

Tyson Foods invests US$200 million in Texas, US beef plant

Tyson Foods announced on August 18 the company will invest US$200 million at its Amarillo, Texas, US beef plant to expand and upgrade operations and build a new team member well-being area.

The project will begin this fall and involves construction of a 143,000 square foot addition to the existing beef complex to house upgraded team member well-being areas including locker rooms, cafeteria and office space. The project will also expand and enhance the facility's existing operations floor.

Expected to be completed by 2024, the upgrade of the facility will improve team member experience and overall operational efficiencies, Tyson said. While the project is not expected to add jobs to the plant, the Amarillo facility employs 4,000 team members and generates an annual payroll of US$180 million.

Kevin Carter, executive director of Amarillo Economic Development Corporation said: "Thank you to Tyson Foods for its continued commitment to the Amarillo area. Today's announcement solidifies Tyson's position as a top economic driver in our community for years to come and the US$200 million capital expenditure illustrates a significant investment in Tyson Foods' future in Amarillo."

The Amarillo plant is one of the largest of the company's six beef facilities. The complex produces commodity cuts of fresh beef and specialty products and includes a ground beef patty operation. These products are packaged and boxed for sale to retail and foodservice customers throughout the United States and internationally.

The expansion modernises the facility and prioritises team member safety, ergonomics and food safety, and incorporates enhanced automation and new technologies. The new space also supports several of the company's sustainability efforts through energy and water conservation improvements. Specially designed water utility equipment, pumps and piping will automate and allow for a reduction in water usage. 

"We're committed to be the most sought-after place to work and while we've invested heavily in new benefits for our team, this project will improve the onsite work experience for our team members, while making our operations more efficient," said Shane Miller, group president of Tyson Foods Fresh Meats.

In 2021, the company awarded nearly US$400,000 to the Wesley Community Center and Maverick Boys and Girls Club of Amarillo to refurbish their facilities to accommodate the children of Tyson team members employed at the company's Amarillo beef plant.

Tyson Foods' beef business currently operates beef plants in US states Texas, Kansas, Nebraska, Illinois and Washington. The company receives cattle from close to 90 independent cattle suppliers in the state and it's estimated Tyson Foods' operations have a total economic impact of nearly US$3 billion in Texas.

- Tyson