LaFayette, GA (July 24, 2025) – Governor Brian P. Kemp today announced that Pilgrim’s, one of the world’s leading food companies, will invest $400 million to expand its footprint in Georgia. The company will build a new, multi-phase prepared foods facility in Walker County, supporting more than 630 new jobs at full capacity.

“Georgia’s No. 1 industry of agriculture continues to drive growth with companies like Pilgrim’s creating quality jobs in communities like LaFayette,” said Governor Brian Kemp. “As our state’s economy continues to advance, we are excited to see these continued innovations and the opportunities they will bring for hardworking Georgians.”

Pilgrim’s is a leading global provider of high-quality food products. Across the State of Georgia, the company currently supports an estimated 7,500 jobs and operates seven food production facilities, in addition to supporting facilities like feed mills and hatcheries.

“Expanding the Pilgrim’s footprint in Georgia highlights our ongoing commitment to the region and our company’s long-term growth strategy,” said Fabio Sandri, Pilgrim’s CEO. “This significant investment will allow further growth of our prepared foods business by expanding brands like Just Bare, Pilgrim’s, and Gold Kist, and supporting increasing demand in retail and foodservice channels. We are also proud of our role in creating jobs and being a strong community partner.”

The new facility will be located on a 100-acre site just north of Audia Plastics in the Walker County Business Park off Highway 27 near LaFayette. It will produce a variety of fully cooked chicken products, like chicken nuggets and lightly breaded chicken breast strips, to support the growth of Pilgrim’s  fast-growing prepared foods business. Products will be sold at groceries and wholesale clubs under familiar names like Just Bare and Pilgrim’s.

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The project, which includes the construction of a 300,000 square foot building, is expected to get underway this fall with hiring taking place in 2027, aligning with the expected completion of the first phase of construction. To learn more about Pilgrim’s, including where interested individuals can apply for jobs, visit jobs.pilgrims.com.

“This is a tremendous opportunity for Walker County to provide stable jobs and long-term security for residents who want to work where they live,” said Chairwoman and CEO Angie Teems, Walker County Government. “Not only is this a well-respected company with a strong track record, but it already has a presence in our community through its partnerships with local poultry growers. Expanding their operations here is a natural next step that will strengthen our local economy and reinforce our county’s commitment to supporting hardworking families.”

Senior Regional Project Manager Lori Dowdy represented the Georgia Department of Economic Development’s (GDEcD) Global Commerce team on this competitive project in partnership with the Walker County Development Authority and Georgia Quick Start.

“We are excited that Pilgrim’s continues to grow its footprint and drive economic opportunities here in Georgia,” said GDEcD Commissioner Pat Wilson. “Agriculture has long been the backbone of our economy, laying the groundwork for today’s thriving food and beverage sector. Critical industries like cold storage and logistics build on that legacy, generating jobs and opportunities across the state. Congratulations to Walker County for helping bring these new investments and possibilities to LaFayette.”