SPRINGDALE, ARK. – Officials with Tyson Foods Inc. will lay off approximately 200 employees at its Robards, Ky., poultry plant as the facility transitions its operations to focus on increasing production to meet the demand for its fully cooked, value-added chicken products.

“Due to this growing demand, beginning Jan. 24, 2022, we are shifting our product mix to reflect consumer behaviors and meet the needs of our customers,” said a company spokesperson. “Unfortunately, this change in product mix will result in reducing our workforce at that facility.”

The plant employs about 1,300 workers and according to Tyson, the affected employees will have the opportunity to receive relocation assistance and work at its Humboldt or Shelbyville, Tenn., plants.

“We are also working with state and local agencies and officials to help ensure all team members, who choose not to relocate, are connected to the resources and assistance available to them,” Tyson said.