Pilgrim’s Pride, in partnership with Graves County Economic Development, is investing more than $53.5 million in a new state of-the-art hatchery. Pilgrim’s Pride has committed to Mayfield and Graves County for 30 years and supported more than 1,300 employees.
“This new hatchery represents our ongoing commitment to this region and the resilience of the community after the events in December 2021. We are also grateful to our team members and our producer partners for their ongoing support and dedication,” said Kent Massey, Pilgrim’s Mayfield complex manager. “Pilgrim’s is honored to be a large employer in Graves County, and we pride ourselves on being a good neighbor.”
Pilgrim’s started construction of its new facility in December 2022 and plans to have the new state of-the-art facility completed by January 2024.
"Graves County is encouraged by the continued investment and support of jobs in Graves County. This $53.5 million investment and returned jobs will add to 1,300 employees Pilgrim's employs in our community. The 245 farmers they support through their poultry barns is a tremendous economic driver for Graves County and west Kentucky. We look forward to the future with Pilgrim’s and their team,” said Graves County Judge-Executive Jesse Perry.
“Pilgrim’s has been here for the last 30 years, and it’s a vital part of Mayfield and Graves County. Not just economically, providing jobs for our citizens, but in the futures of their employees,” Mayfield Mayor Kathy O’Nan said.
Pilgrim's is a leading global provider of high-quality food products, including well-recognized brands and value-added premium products. As one of the world's largest poultry producers and a fully integrated pork producer, Pilgrim's has provided wholesome quality products to customers and consumers for more than seven decades.
"Mayfield Electric and Water Systems is excited to see Mayfield businesses not only building back, but building back bigger and better. We are grateful for their faith and their investment in our region. Pilgrim's is a vital employer, customer and part of our community. We truly look forward to working with them and being their utility provider," said Brent Schultz, Operations manager.
Jason Lemle, President of Graves County Economic Development, is excited to see the commitment Pilgrim's has placed in Graves County and the City of Mayfield . He said, ''Pilgrim's Pride has been an economic staple of our community for decades and we are excited that they continue to invest and grow. Their recent investment into the hatchery is a testament to their unwavering support of their farmers, employees, and our home. I am grateful to be a part of this announcement and their future.
"Atmos Energy is proud to continue our long-standing relationship with Pilgrim's Pride as they build this new state-of-the-art hatchery," says Ryan Bates, senior industrial account manager. "We are happy to partner with Jason Lemle and the Graves County Economic Development team to attract new jobs to Graves County. Atmos Energy continues to celebrate the recent successes of industrial development across the Commonwealth, creating jobs that will enrich people's lives for decades to come."
GCED began in 1981 becoming the driving force behind expansion and development opportunities in the community, and continues to foster strong relationships with existing businesses and attract new industry to grow in Graves County. There are 45 targeted businesses and industries in Graves County that employ 2,300 people in the community.