Cal-Maine Foods, Inc., the nation’s largest producer and distributor of shell eggs, has announced a significant investment in Missouri, establishing a state-of-the-art egg processing facility in Dexter. This strategic move represents a $13 million investment and is projected to create approximately 96 new jobs in the region, signaling a major economic boost for Southeast Missouri. The company will repurpose an existing facility in Dexter, previously utilized for chicken processing, demonstrating a commitment to efficient resource utilization and rapid operational setup. This expansion underscores Cal-Maine Foods’ dedication to strengthening its national presence and meeting the increasing demand for its quality egg products.
Missouri Governor Mike Parson expressed enthusiasm for Cal-Maine Foods’ investment, stating, “We’re thrilled to see Cal-Maine Foods investing and creating jobs in the Dexter community. This leading company’s decision to bring operations to Southeast Missouri is an exciting development for the region. We look forward to Cal-Maine Foods’ success in Dexter as it provides new opportunities for the area and supports our state’s thriving agriculture industry.” This sentiment highlights the strategic importance of attracting industry leaders like Cal-Maine Foods to Missouri to bolster the state’s economy and agricultural sector.
Cal-Maine Foods’ decision to locate in Dexter is aligned with its broader strategy of establishing operations in close proximity to its customer base. As the largest egg producer and distributor in the United States, Cal-Maine Foods prioritizes sustainability and efficient supply chains. The Dexter facility will operate through partnerships with numerous local growers, fostering collaboration within the Missouri agricultural community and ensuring a consistent supply of fresh, high-quality eggs. This network of local partnerships will not only support regional farmers but also enhance the sustainability of Cal-Maine Foods’ operations by reducing transportation distances and supporting local economies.
Sherman Miller, President and Chief Executive Officer of Cal-Maine Foods, Inc., elaborated on the strategic rationale behind this expansion: “We are pleased to announce the proposed acquisition of the assets of Tyson’s former broiler processing facility in Dexter, Missouri. This transaction is consistent with our growth strategy to expand our business through selective acquisitions in addition to our organic growth initiatives. The Dexter location offers an important opportunity to expand our geographic footprint and enhance our ability to serve our valued customers with added production and distribution capabilities in Missouri and surrounding markets. We look forward to working with the Tyson team to close the transaction and to working with the contract growers who will support our shell egg production capabilities. As we extend our market reach, we remain focused on the efficient and sustainable management of our existing and acquired operations and meeting the demands of our customers.” Miller’s statement emphasizes the dual approach of strategic acquisitions and organic growth that drives Cal-Maine Foods’ expansion, with the Dexter facility playing a crucial role in enhancing market reach and customer service.
The Dexter facility is planned to be a comprehensive operation, encompassing a chick hatchery, feed mill, and breeder flock maintenance, in addition to the core functions of shell egg production, processing, packaging, and distribution. This integrated approach from Cal-Maine Foods ensures control over the entire egg production lifecycle, promoting efficiency and quality control. The establishment of this facility in Dexter is considered just the initial phase of Cal-Maine Foods’ investment in the community, suggesting potential for further expansion and development in the future. Operations at the Dexter location are anticipated to commence in the summer of 2024, marking a significant milestone for both Cal-Maine Foods and the Dexter community.
Michelle Hataway, Acting Director of the Department of Economic Development, underscored the importance of Cal-Maine Foods to Missouri’s agricultural landscape, stating, “Cal-Maine Foods is an agricultural leader we’re proud to have in our state. This company’s investment in Dexter is helping Missourians prosper by creating jobs, supporting farmers, and strengthening our agriculture industry as a whole. We appreciate all our partners who contributed to this project and helped bring new opportunities to Southeast Missouri.” This highlights the collaborative effort between state agencies and private companies to foster economic growth and strengthen key industries within Missouri.
To facilitate its establishment in Dexter, Cal-Maine Foods will benefit from the Missouri Works Program. This state initiative is designed to support companies in expanding their operations and workforce by providing access to capital through withholdings or tax credits linked to job creation. The Missouri Works Program serves as a critical tool in attracting businesses like Cal-Maine Foods, demonstrating the state’s commitment to fostering a business-friendly environment and supporting economic development.
Chris Chinn, Missouri Director of Agriculture, highlighted the broader positive impact on the agricultural community: “Southeast Missouri has a proud history of poultry production. This announcement from Cal-Maine Foods is a win for poultry farmers, grain farmers and the many agribusinesses who support those segments of the industry. We appreciate the leadership at Cal-Maine Foods for recognizing the opportunity to partner with Missouri producers.” This perspective emphasizes the ripple effect of Cal-Maine Foods’ investment, benefiting not only direct employees but also the wider agricultural ecosystem in Missouri.
Senator Jason Bean further emphasized the regional economic significance: “We are very excited with the prospect of having Cal-Maine Foods as another regional economic driver in the 25th district. Agriculture brings about inherent uncertainties that our farmers understand all too well, and having the ability to partner with a reputable, long-standing company like Cal-Maine helps our producers continue to manage risk and provide safe, abundant food for all. I cannot overstate how proactive and impactful the efforts of the City of Dexter and DED have been to maintain our poultry industry in Southeast Missouri.” Senator Bean’s comments underscore the stability and opportunities that a partnership with Cal-Maine Foods brings to local producers, enhancing the resilience of the regional agricultural economy.
Alisha Trammell, Executive Director of the Dexter Chamber of Commerce, concluded by emphasizing the local impact: “Cal-Maine Foods’ decision to establish their facility in Dexter not only underscores our city’s exceptional potential but also brings a wave of prosperity that will significantly benefit our local workforce and economy. We are proud to say that this venture will provide numerous employment opportunities for our local residents, offering them a chance to be part of a dynamic, growing industry. We extend our heartfelt gratitude to Cal-Maine Foods for their investment in our community.” Trammell’s statement encapsulates the direct benefits for Dexter residents, highlighting job creation and economic growth within the local community as a result of Cal-Maine Foods’ investment.
In conclusion, Cal-Maine Foods’ investment in Dexter, Missouri, represents a significant advancement for the company and a substantial economic win for the region. The new egg processing facility is poised to enhance Cal-Maine Foods’ production and distribution capabilities, create numerous jobs, and strengthen Missouri’s agricultural sector. This strategic expansion underscores Cal-Maine Foods’ commitment to growth, sustainability, and serving the needs of its customers nationwide, while simultaneously contributing positively to the communities in which it operates.
