Mississippi poultry processor breaks ground on $25 million expansion, expects to create more than 20 new jobs

A Mississippi poultry processor broke ground on a new $25 million transload facility in Perry County.

This investment marks a pivotal development for the community, promising substantial economic benefits and job creation.

The first phase of the project will see the new facility supplying grain to Mar-Jac’s Mississippi growers, with over 20 new jobs being created. The broader economic impact of the project is estimated to exceed $90 million, benefiting Perry County significantly.

“This is a very interesting opportunity for Mar-Jac, and it is one of the bigger things we have done in Mississippi,” said Tanveer Papa, chief financial officer at Mar-Jac. “We started this project about three and a half years ago, and we knew it could do wonders for Perry County. It has culminated into this great opportunity today, so we are looking forward to what we can do for this community as well as the communities around us.”

The Perry County location offers Mar-Jac a strategic transportation advantage with rail access on the property, which will help reduce the high costs associated with transporting grain to local growers. This, in turn, could lower the cost of the end product for consumers.

“This project is a testament that rural areas with limited resources have unlimited potential when everyone works together and pulls in the same direction,” said Shane Barnett, Representative for House District 86, Mississippi. He extended his gratitude to everyone involved in making the project possible, from local and state officials to community leaders and stakeholders.

The ceremony, held at the Perry County Board of Supervisors office, marks the beginning of Mar-Jac’s long-term growth plan in the county. Following the completion of the transload facility, Mar-Jac plans to further invest in the area with the development of a feed mill.

“Our company takes a lot of pride in our commitment to the local communities where we operate,” said Keith Poss, director of transportation at Mar-Jac Poultry. “We are genuinely committed to the welfare of our employees, our customers, and our community. We are here for a long-term relationship with Perry County, and that takes a beginning-to-end commitment to make that happen.”