Wayne Farms, a producer of fresh and processed poultry, will invest $3 million to expand its operations in Laurel, Mississippi, creating 150 jobs in the region. The expansion involves the addition of a new processing line and the renovation of the company’s existing facility.

The Mississippi Development Authority provided assistance in support of the project through the Community Development Block Grant program to assist with infrastructure and renovation. In addition, the City of Laurel provided assistance for the expansion, as well.

“Wayne Farms has been ‘in business’ with Mississippi and Laurel since 1957, and this block grant is testimony to the mutually-beneficial relationship we’ve enjoyed. It represents a true community partnership that will create 150 jobs and millions of dollars in economic impact to the area,” said Clint Rivers, Vice President and General Manager of Wayne Farms’ Fresh Processing Business Unit. “We’re grateful for the hard work and vision of the Mississippi Governor’s office, the Mississippi Development Authority and the confidence of this community. We’ll do our part to continue earning that confidence.”

“The addition of this new processing line and the 150 new jobs being created will positively impact the Laurel community for years to come, and we are glad to have the resources in place to assist great companies such as Wayne Farms as they grow and strengthen their roots in our state,” said MDA Executive Director Brent Christensen. “We appreciate our partners at the Economic Development Authority of Jones County and the City of Laurel for working to make this project a reality.”

“I am grateful to the team at Wayne Farms for expanding its Laurel operations and creating so many new job opportunities for the area’s residents,” Gov. Phil Bryant said. “When companies continue to invest in their existing Mississippi operations, it speaks to the fact that we offer businesses a supportive, favorable business climate to help ensure their success. I wish Wayne Farms many more years of success in Jones County.”