Hormel Invests $137M in New Jennie-O Processing PlantHormel Invests $137M in New Jennie-O Processing Plant
May 25, 2017

Hormel Foods Corporation initiated construction of a new Jennie-O Turkey Store processing plant in this month as part of a $137 million investment plan to replace an outdated facility in Melrose, MN, the food company announced Wednesday.
“This investment shows the company’s commitment to provide the best processing experience to our growers and to meet our customer needs,” Glenn Leitch, president of Jennie-O Turkey Store, said in a statement. “The new equipment will enhance our animal handling practices and increased automation will improve people safety.”
Jennie-O will install new processing equipment to increase production capacity and efficiency. The Minneapolis Star-Tribune notes that current food safety technology will also be purchased. Hormel’s plant will continue making existing Jennie-O products, but the renovation will allow the facility to delve into new offerings like Jennie-O’s Oven-Ready range, the newspaper reported.
Hormel officials said the project may have some impacts on staffing at the plant as automated equipment comes into use.
“We do plan on requiring fewer jobs in the new plant but once the new plant is finished, the existing plant will be partially torn down and the newer section retained to produce further value-added products,” Jennie-O said in an email sent to the Star-Tribune. “We expect all of our team members will continue employment with Jennie-O Turkey Store.”
Founded in 1940, Jennie-O produces more than 1500 products that are distributed across over 70 countries, according to the brand’s website.
For more articles, news, and equipment reviews, visit our Equipment Zones
You May Also Like