FOREST, MISS. — Tyson Foods Inc. announced the completion of a $90 million expansion to its Forest processing plant.

The poultry processing facility added new automation technology for its chicken processing line, giving the operation additional production capacity to serve its foodservice customers.

Currently, the Forest facility employs around 1,250 workers, who were paid nearly $40 million in wages during the 2021 fiscal year. The facility’s local economic impact is $58 million annually.

The company said the expansion will create 320 new jobs.

“We’re excited about the expansion project at Forest and our continued efforts to increase our automation footprint,” said David Bray, Tyson group president of poultry. “This project demonstrates our ability to execute a product mix change that translates into less intensive labor for team members while creating more jobs at a competitive pay structure. It’s a win-win to support the long-term growth of the Forest community and our operations.”

The project is part of three investments made in Mississippi beginning in 2021. In total, Tyson has invested over $160 million and supported more than 3,400 team members in the state.