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Area Development - Site Selection, Facility Planning and Workforce Development

Pilgrim’s Plans LaFayette, Georgia, Operations

08/12/2025
Pilgrim’s, one of the largest chicken producers in the world and a fully integrated pork producer, plans to establish operations in LaFayette, Georgia. The $400 million project is expected to create more than 630 jobs in Walker County.

The investment will include the construction of a new, multi-phase prepared foods facility located at the Walker County Business Park which will produce a variety of fully cooked chicken products to support the company’s prepared foods business. Operations are scheduled to begin in 2027.

“Expanding the Pilgrim’s footprint in Georgia highlights our ongoing commitment to the region and our company’s long-term growth strategy,” said Fabio Sandri, Pilgrim’s CEO. “This significant investment will allow further growth of our prepared foods business by expanding brands like Just Bare, Pilgrim’s, and Gold Kist, and supporting increasing demand in retail and foodservice channels. We are also proud of our role in creating jobs and being a strong community partner.”

Senior Regional Project Manager Lori Dowdy represented the Georgia Department of Economic Development’s (GDEcD) Global Commerce team on the project in partnership with the Walker County Development Authority and Georgia Quick Start.

“We are excited that Pilgrim’s continues to grow its footprint and drive economic opportunities here in Georgia,” noted GDEcD Commissioner Pat Wilson. “Agriculture has long been the backbone of our economy, laying the groundwork for today’s thriving food and beverage sector. Critical industries like cold storage and logistics build on that legacy, generating jobs and opportunities across the state. Congratulations to Walker County for helping bring these new investments and possibilities to LaFayette.”

Pilgrim's supplies a range of food products, including fresh and value-added or prepared items, to retailers, restaurants, and foodservice distributors. The company currently operates protein processing plants and prepared-foods facilities in the U.S., Puerto Rico, Mexico, the U.K, the Republic of Ireland, and continental Europe.

“We welcome Pilgrim's to Walker County and LaFayette,” added LaFayette Mayor and Chairman of the Walker County Development Authority Andy Arnold. “Pilgrim’s has a wonderful history of positive community involvement, and the creation of up to 630 jobs for our area is a game changer for many families. We look forward to our partnership.”

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