What's Happening?
The Virginia Poultry Growers Cooperative is investing $113.9 million to expand its feed mill in Hinton, Virginia. This expansion will add 146 jobs to the existing workforce of 565 employees and increase the cooperative's turkey processing capacity to 11 million birds
annually. The cooperative, which began in 2004 after Pilgrim's Pride closed its turkey production facility in Hinton, is a farmer-owned group of about 165 turkey growers. The expansion will also involve purchasing an additional 2.4 million bushels of corn and wheat from Virginia farms over the next three years. The new feed mill is expected to open by the first quarter of 2028, with expansion efforts already underway.
Why It's Important?
This investment is significant for the Shenandoah Valley's economy, where agriculture, particularly poultry, is a major industry. The expansion will not only create jobs but also support local farmers by increasing demand for corn and wheat. The cooperative's growth reflects the resilience of Virginia's poultry industry, which has largely been shielded from avian influenza outbreaks. The investment underscores the importance of agriculture in the region, contributing over $640 million to the valley's gross regional product and employing 13,000 people. The cooperative's expansion is a positive development for its member farms, which receive 100% of the company's profits.
What's Next?
The cooperative plans to continue increasing its production volume for turkey meat and adding jobs over the next three years. The new feed mill will enhance the cooperative's capacity and efficiency, supporting its long-term growth. The cooperative also aims to maintain its local focus, sourcing turkeys from Virginia and neighboring states. This strategy helps meet growing demand while ensuring sustainable business practices. The expansion is expected to strengthen the cooperative's position in the market and provide stability for its member growers.
