Pilgrim’s Breaks Ground on New Prepared Foods Facility in Walker County, Georgia

LaFayette, Georgia – Pilgrim’s, one of the world’s leading food companies, officially broke ground on a new, state-of-the-art prepared foods facility in Walker County, Georgia. The $400 million investment, announced in July of this year, marks a prominent expansion of the company’s U.S. footprint and is expected to create more than 630 new jobs once fully operational. 

Located in the Walker County Business Park, the multi-phase facility will produce a variety of fully cooked chicken products. These products will be sold under trusted brands such as Just Bare, Pilgrim’s and Gold Kist, serving both retail and foodservice channels.

“This groundbreaking represents more than just a new facility—it’s a commitment to the Walker County community and the future growth of our company,” said Fabio Sandri, CEO of Pilgrim’s. “We’re proud to invest in a region that shares our values and vision for growth.”

Construction is set to begin this fall, with hiring expected to start in 2027, aligning with the completion of the first phase of the 300,000-square-foot facility.

‌Local and state leaders praised the project for its economic impact and community benefits:

“Pilgrim’s has a wonderful history of positive community involvement, and the creation of up to 630 jobs for our area is a game changer for many families,” said Andy Arnold, Mayor of LaFayette.

‌”This is a tremendous opportunity for Walker County,” said Angie Teems, Chairwoman and CEO of the Walker County Government. “Not only will this multimillion-dollar investment bring in hundreds of jobs, but it also offers long-term stability for folks who want to work where they live. We are thrilled to have Pilgrim’s in our county.”

“The Walker County Business Park is a strong example of how strategic investment can create jobs closer to home for residents,” said Deputy Commissioner Misti Martin of the Georgia Department of Economic Development. “Congratulations to the City of LaFayette, Walker County, and Pilgrim’s, and we look forward to continuing to work with these teams in the future.”

Pilgrim’s currently supports approximately 7,500 jobs across Georgia and operates seven production facilities, along with feed mills and hatcheries.

In addition to creating jobs, Pilgrim’s will extend its signature Hometown Strong and Better Futures programs to Walker County. Through Hometown Strong, the company is investing over $15 million in rural communities across the U.S., supporting projects like new community centers, school improvements, athletic facilities, childcare enhancements, parks, and more. The Better Futures program provides free community college tuition for team members and their children, helping families develop personally and professionally.

Further demonstrating its commitment to supporting local communities, especially during times of need, Pilgrim’s is donating over 700 pounds of chicken wings, tenders and breasts to Pie Slingers, a local restaurant in Walker County. This donation will help serve people in need in the area.

“At Pilgrim’s, we believe in showing up for our communities—especially in challenging times,” said Fabio Sandri, CEO of Pilgrim’s. “This donation is a small way we can help ensure families in Walker County have access to a warm meal and a sense of togetherness during the holiday season.”

For more information about Pilgrim’s and eventual employment opportunities in Walker County, visit Pilgrim’s Global Careers.

About Pilgrim’s

Pilgrim’s employs over 61,000 people and operates protein processing plants and prepared-foods facilities in 14 states, Puerto Rico, Mexico, the U.K, the Republic of Ireland, and continental Europe. The Company’s primary distribution is through retailers and foodservice distributors. For more information, please visit www.pilgrims.com.