SPRINGDALE, Ark. – Tyson Foods Inc. is considering investing in two separate projects in North Texas in the coming year, including a new facility in Denton and an expansion in Sherman. At least part of Tyson’s$1.5 billion capital expenditures slated for its 2019 fiscal year is being earmarked for a possible $30 million expansion of its case-ready plant in Sherman, Texas. Just one day after Tyson reported record performance from its Beef business segment for its 2018 fiscal fourth quarter and fiscal year, a spokesman for the company said the project, which was reported by The Herald Democrat, is being considered.

“We are exploring a potential upgrade of our material handling facility at our Sherman, Texas, case-ready plant as part of our strategic plan to maintain efficiency and better support the plant’s production capabilities,” the company said in a statement. The 100,000-sq.-ft. plant is one of three case-ready facilities operated by the company and it employs about 1,700 workers. According to the published report, the expansion would add 80,000 sq. ft. but would not result in additional jobs at the plant. The report also stated Tyson could receive incentives of $1.5 million for the project, according to the Sherman Economic Development Corp. (SEDCO).

“SEDCO is proud to partner with Tyson on this expansion project, which allows the company to stay competitive and remain as Sherman’s largest employer,” said Stacey Jones, executive vice president of SEDCO. “Tyson is a vital contributor to Sherman’s economy and a major community partner, supporting numerous education and non-profit efforts.”

Tyson iterated the project is not yet confirmed but acknowledged the cooperative partnership with SEDCO.

“We appreciate the Sherman Economic Development Corp.’s collaboration on the proposed expansion,” the company said.

Tyson is also looking at building a 350,000-sq.-ft. distribution center in Denton as part of a project valued at about $52 million, according to a report published by The Denton Record Chronicle. In an email to MEAT+POULTRY, Burleson confirmed the possibility of the project moving forward.

“We do have interest in expanding our distribution and warehousing network to the Denton area,” said Burleson, “but plans have not been finalized at this time.”