Cal-Maine Foods Inc., the largest producer and distributor of fresh shell eggs in the United States, announced Dec. 29 a definitive agreement to acquire a broiler processing plant, hatchery, and feed mill in Dexter, Missouri, that were recently closed by Tyson Foods Inc. The Missouri Department of Economic Development said Cal-Maine will invest $13 million to repurpose the assets for use in egg and egg products production.

Cal-Maine said it will initially convert the broiler processing plant to an egg grading facility but anticipates making additional investments in the facilities. Potential future expansion includes egg products processing capabilities, such as hard-cooked eggs.

“We’re thrilled to see Cal-Maine Foods investing and creating jobs in the Dexter community,” said Missouri Gov. Mike Parson. “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.”

In connection with the acquisition, Cal-Maine expects to enter into agreements with certain of Tyson’s former contract farmers to convert their operations to support Cal-Maine’s cage free, free range, or pasture raised egg production operations.

“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,” said Sherman Miller, president and chief executive officer of Cal-Maine.

The Dexter location offers an important opportunity to expand the company’s geographic footprint and enhance the ability to serve customers with added production and distribution capabilities in Missouri and surrounding markets, Miller added. “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.”

Cal-Maine’s facility is expected to begin operations in summer of 2024.

“Southeast Missouri has a proud history of poultry production,” said Missouri Director of Agriculture Chris Chinn. “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.”