Southeast Pork Alliance Group Launched

During the Southeast Summer Conference in Franklin, Tennessee, six state pork organizations officially announced the formation and launch of the Southeast Pork Alliance, a producer-led regional partnership designed to strengthen the pork industry through collaboration, shared resources, advocacy, and innovation. 

The Southeast Pork Alliance brings together the following organizations:  

• Kentucky Pork Producers Association 
• Tennessee Pork Producers Association 
• Mississippi Pork Producers Association 
• Alabama Pork Producers 
• Georgia Pork Producers Association 
• Florida Pork Improvement Group 

While united under the Southeast Pork Alliance, each participating organization will remain an independent state association with its own Board of Directors, governance/membership, and identity. Each state’s Board of Directors voted to adopt the Alliance and become a founding member. The Alliance will be governed by a Joint Council consisting of two representatives from each participating state, elected by their respective state boards. 

While consumer demand continues to grow, the number of pork producers has remained the same or declined in many areas. Meaning more people, less pigs.

The Southeast Pork Alliance aims to capitalize on this opportunity by promoting pork to a rapidly expanding consumer base while strengthening the industry’s voice throughout the region. As new residents bring diverse perspectives and changing expectations about food and agriculture, maintaining a strong producer presence will be critical to protecting the future of pork production and advancing sound agricultural policy.

“The Southeast Pork Alliance will benefit Kentucky producers and producers across the Southeast by creating a united front. This coalition of states will allow us to protect our entire region from unfair and unrealistic practices that threaten our ability to provide the highest standards of animal care and husbandry. Not only will this Alliance help protect our freedom to operate; it will also help drive pork consumption across the region. Right now, large metropolitan school districts like Nashville and Chicago restrict or deny pork on school menus. It’s our job as producers and farmer leaders to share the story of our product and promote pork as a healthy, lean source of protein for all. Kentucky Pork Producers is strong on its own, but being part of the Southeast Pork Alliance makes us even stronger,” said Michael Williford, Vice President of the Kentucky Pork Producers Association.

Read more about the new group here.