American Foods Group Selects Missouri for New Beef Plant

Protein products supplier American Foods Group (AFG) has selected Warren County, MO for a new beef processing plant after conducting a multi-state search for a location, the Greater Warren County Economic Development Council (GWCEDC) and Warren County Commission announced in a recent release.

“We have been impressed by Warren County and the potential opportunity to become a part of that community,” said Jim Rathke, executive vice president of AFG, in a statement. “The process will take some time, but we feel very good about what we have seen in Warren County, MO.”

The local organizations started to work with AFG in spring 2021 as the company’s search for a new location was underway. AFG plans to make a final decision on the Warren County facility by next spring. If the plan proceeds, the new processing plant will become operational in 2024.

“Missouri is able to compete for projects of this magnitude because of our strong agriculture community and business-friendly economy,” Missouri Gov. Mike Parson said in the release. “As a third-generation farmer and cattleman myself, I know how beneficial having a company like American Foods Group in Warren County will be for Missouri’s farmers and consumers. We are excited that Missouri is the planned location and remain committed to supporting the company as this project continues to develop in our state.”

Warren County and state officials are exploring potential partnership strategies to help facilitate the development of the plant. AFG will invest $450 million in the facility if the deal proceeds.

AFG produces fresh, frozen and fully prepared USDA graded beef and has a presence across the US.