Rembrandt Foods announced April 18 that it plans to build a fully dedicated cage-free egg production site in Lake Preston, S.D. The facility expansion will initially house approximately 3 million cage-free layers, in planned phases. The facility will have on-site breaking equipment, with further growth planned.

The site will significantly expand the existing cage-free egg production and processing capacity of Rembrandt Foods, one of the world’s largest egg and egg ingredient producers. This investment aligns with the commitment to cage-free expansion and growth that Rembrandt announced last year.

“We recognize the growing consumer demand for cage-free eggs and egg products, and as a leader in this industry, we are committed to supporting our customers’ cage-free needs,” said Dave Rettig, president of Rembrandt Foods.  “The Lake Preston operation reflects our interest in a cage-free future, and we are excited to make this investment.”

The Iowa-based company supplies eggs and egg products to food manufacturers, foodservice providers, restaurant chains and retail grocers. “Supplying high-quality cage-free egg products is just one way that Rembrandt partners with our customers. We help our customers understand what it will take to transition to a cage-free supply and work with them to develop a plan to ensure success,” said Jonathan Spurway, vice president of marketing at Rembrandt Foods.

“A cage-free supply chain isn’t built overnight, but the Lake Preston facility puts us another step closer to facilitating a cage-free standard,” Rettig added.

The South Dakota location was selected for its central location, access to feed and biosecurity benefits. Construction will begin in 2016, with the first hens introduced in 2017.

“Rembrandt Foods will be a welcome addition to South Dakota’s robust agriculture industry,” South Dakota Gov. Dennis Daugaard said. “I want to thank Rembrandt for choosing to do business here.”