Tennessee Gov. Bill Lee recently announced that Aviagen will be investing $35.3 million to expand in Pikeville, Tenn., with a new state-of-the-art feed mill -- a key part of the company’s larger expansion plans in the area.

Aviagen plans to create up to 36 new jobs as part of the expansion, which will include a new feed mill to accommodate the company’s growth.

Aviagen, a global poultry genetics company that supplies broiler breeding stock to customers in more than 100 countries, currently has 714 employees in Tennessee across multiple locations in the state.

“In recent weeks, we have announced several economic projects across our state that will offer Tennesseans much-need job opportunities,” Lee said. “Aviagen’s substantial investment in Pikeville is welcome news for Bledsoe County and its residents. Together with other recent job announcements, Aviagen’s expansion promises to help Tennessee’s economy gain its footing and get back on track.”

Aviagen chief executive officer Jan Henriksen said, “With operations in Pikeville, Crossville and throughout the Cumberland Plateau, Aviagen is committed to the great state of Tennessee. Our strategy is to continue to expand our local footprint, contributing to the growth in jobs while also providing quality breeding stock to our customers throughout the U.S. and around the world.”

She continued, “Gov. Lee has a proven understanding of agriculture and, in particular, of primary breeders. Through this project, we share a common goal to promote the economic development of the area while also helping chicken producers everywhere feed their communities with a sustainable and nutritious source of protein.”