Pilgrim's Pride Corp. recently announced that it is making a $75 million expansion to its production facility in Cold Spring, Minn. When construction is completed in early 2021, up to 130 new jobs will be created.

“Today’s announced expansion is an important strategic investment for Pilgrim’s, and it will help ensure our Cold Spring facility can grow its capacity to provide premium chicken products for people across the country,” Wesley Smith, manager of Pilgrim’s Cold Spring complex, said. “This news strengthens our ongoing commitment to this region, to our grower partners and, of course, to our team members.”

The expansion will add 50,000 sq. ft. of additional space to the facility and allow for increased daily production of high-quality chicken products, including the Pilgrim’s Just Bare brand. A portion of the investment will create improved facilities for Pilgrim’s team members, such as a new cafeteria, increased locker room capacity as well as more breakroom, lunchroom and bathroom space.

In August, the Greater St. Cloud Development Corp. (GSDC) brought together representatives from Pilgrim’s, the state of Minnesota, Stearns County, Minn., the city of Cold Spring and Xcel Energy to discuss infrastructure and other needs. These efforts led to approval earlier this week of a 10-year tax abatement by Stearns County, the city of Cold Spring and the Cold Spring School District.

“This was a major opportunity that needed quick actions by many organizations, all of which were committed to bringing this project to fruition,” GSDC president Patti Gartland said. “Pilgrim’s has long been a great member of this community, and we’re pleased that up to 130 excellent new jobs will be created for area residents.”

Mark Osendorf, Xcel Energy manager, community relations and economic development, said, “Xcel Energy has partnered with the Greater St. Cloud Development Corp. on many projects, and we appreciate their collaboration and commitment to delivering this important project, which will provide jobs and growth that will benefit all of central Minnesota.”

Pilgrim’s Cold Spring currently employs nearly 1,200 team members and is an active supporter of the local community, including its recent announcement of a $575,000 investment as part of the company’s Hometown Strong initiative.