Governor Brian Kemp has announced that the city of LaFayette in Walker County is set to welcome a new prepared foods facility. Pilgrim’s, one of the world’s leading food companies, will invest $400 million into the city, expanding its footprint and supporting more than 630 new jobs at full capacity.
For context, Pilgrim’s is a leading global provider of food products, and across Georgia, the company currently supports an estimated 7,500 jobs.
Pilgrim’s also operates seven food production facilities in the state, while supporting facilities like feed mills and hatcheries.
The new facility will be located at the Walker County Business Park in LaFayette. It will primarily produce a variety of fully cooked chicken products.
The project is expected to begin in the fall of 2025, and hiring is likely to start in 2027. This aligns with the expected completion of the first phase of construction.
Gov. Kemp expressed gratitude over the investment and expects it to boost Georgia’s agriculture industry. He stated, “As our state's economy continues to advance, we are excited to see these continued innovations and the opportunities they will bring for hardworking Georgians.”
The CEO of Pilgrim’s, Fabio Sandri, explained how this was part of the company’s long-term strategy to grow and develop in the region.
“This significant investment will allow further growth of our prepared foods business by expanding brands like Just Bare, Pilgrim’s, and Gold Kist, and supporting increasing demand in retail and foodservice channels,” Sandri stated. “We are also proud of our role in creating jobs and being a strong community partner.”
LaFayette Mayor and Chairman of the Walker County Development Authority, Andy Arnold, proudly welcomed Pilgrim’s and the opportunities they are bringing. He stated, “Pilgrim’s has a wonderful history of positive community involvement, and the creation of up to 630 jobs for our area is a game changer for many families. We look forward to our partnership.”
