Perdue Farms has announced the closure of its chicken production plant in Monterey, Tennessee, resulting in the layoff of over 400 workers. The decision comes as a response to changes in market demand and operational requirements for supplying chicken products to customers. The company cited the need for significant additional investments to sustain operations at the facility.
The plant is scheduled to cease operations on March 28, with approximately 433 jobs being affected by the closure. Perdue Farms has committed to providing severance packages and job placement assistance to the impacted employees.
CEO Kevin McAdams expressed regret over the decision, emphasizing the company’s dedication to supporting the affected associates with dignity and respect. He acknowledged the hard work and contributions of the Monterey team to Perdue Farms.
Perdue Farms joins a list of meat processors scaling back production capabilities in response to market challenges. In recent years, Tyson Foods closed several chicken processing plants to address supply and demand issues, while Pure Prairie Farms shut down its Iowa facility following a bankruptcy filing.
The company, established in 1920, reported $9.8 billion in sales last year, focusing on antibiotic-free chicken, turkey, pork, beef, and lamb products.
Monterey Mayor Randy Porter expressed solidarity with the affected employees, highlighting the plant’s longstanding presence in the community and pledging support from local authorities and organizations to assist workers during this challenging period.