RIDGELAND, MISS. — Egg producer Cal-Maine Foods Inc. announced on March 14 the completion of the acquisition of Tyson Foods Inc.’s former broiler processing plant, hatchery and feed mill in Dexter, Mo.

According to the Missouri Department of Economic Development, Cal-Maine is investing $13 million and creating 96 jobs with the acquisition.

“We are pleased to join the Dexter community and are excited about the opportunities to expand our operations,” said Sherman Miller, president and chief executive officer of Cal-Maine. “We intend to partner with the existing strong network of local contract growers who can support our shell egg production capabilities. Dexter’s central geographic location and strong work force will enhance our supply and distribution capabilities for customers in Missouri and surrounding markets. Importantly, we will also benefit from closer proximity to sources for our primary feed ingredients. We look forward to the new production opportunities, including the potential for additional free-range capacity, in this new community and market for Cal-Maine Foods.”

The repurposed Dexter facility will include a chick hatchery, feed mill and maintenance of breeder flocks in addition to production, processing, packaging and distribution of shell eggs.

Cal-Maine expects to begin operations in the summer of 2024.

Cal-Maine first announced plans to acquire the Dexter facility at the start of this year.

In August 2023, Tyson announced its intentions to shutter the Dexter plant along with three other facilities.

Donnie King, president and CEO of Tyson, said at the time that the closures were part of the company’s commitment to bold action and operational excellence as it drives performance, lowers costs and improves capacity utilization.