CANTON, Miss. (AP) — A family-owned Mississippi poultry company said Thursday it is closing three of its locations in the state, while expanding operations at two other locations and a third in Pocahontas, Ark.
Multiple news outlets report Peco Foods’ Mississippi facilities in Brooksville, Canton, and the hatchery in Philadelphia will be shuttered.
Company officials said the move is to “further grow in a sustainable direction based on industry trends.”
“Since Peco’s beginnings as family-owned company 83 years ago, the industry has drastically shifted,” said Peco Foods Chief Operating Officer Bill Griffith in a media release. “By streamlining our operations, we can continue building a sustainable company that will support the families and communities of our team members and customers for years to come. The decisions announced today – each carefully considered – will position Peco strongly for future growth and industry leadership.”
This repositioning takes industry trends into account, shifting production based on customer feedback and consumer habits. Resources will be further invested in ramping up the company’s West Point, Miss., facility and adding operations in Sebastopol, Miss., and Pocahontas, which have the capability to expand value-added product lines and meet rising demands for customerdriven, innovative foods, the release said.
“By growing strategically, we can continue attracting and retaining the brightest in the industry and contributing to economic development across our footprint,” said Chief Executive Officer Mark Hickman. “We are thankful for the community support we’ve received over the years and look forward to impacting the region as a growing, thriving company employing thousands.”
Batesville is home to a Peco Foods operation.
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