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A poultry processing company announced Thursday that it will locate a processing plant in Lavonia.
By Shane Scoggins
Publisher
LAVONIA – A poultry processing company announced Thursday that it will locate a processing plant in Lavonia.
Jarrett Foods announced plans to invest $14 million and, eventually 300 jobs, in the new venture.
“We are extremely pleased to establish our headquarters and processing facility in Franklin County,” the company said in a press release. “The renovations and new additions to the existing 44,853 square foot facility will begin immediately. The projected completion and grand opening of our new 53,972 square foot facility will be at the end of the first quarter of 2024.”
Jarrett Foods provides “custom poultry processing solutions with an unwavering commitment to delivering consistent, high-quality products including whole bird cut-up custom breast and thigh deboning, breast and tender hand portioning, marination, and re-packaging services,” the press release said.
The company plans to bring 70 jobs to Lavonia immediately and expand to approximately 300 jobs by March of 2025, the release said.
The venture will be led by CEO Heath Jarrett, who has nearly 30 years of experience in the poultry industry. The executive team of the company has more than 70 years experience in poultry processing.
Terry Willis will serve as the President and has over 45 years of experience in the food processing industry. Most recently Terry served as President and CEO for A&D Foods, and previously held senior executive positions with other major poultry processing companies.
The announcement was hailed by both Lavonia city and Franklin County Industrial Building Authority officials.
“I am excited that Jarrett Foods has chosen to do business in Lavonia,” Mayor Courtney Umbehant said in the press release. “They will provide good paying jobs for our citizens and will complement our ag-friendly community. I look forward to their company being a part of our city."
“We are pleased to welcome Jarrett Foods to the Lavonia community,” Lavonia City Manager Charles Cawthon said. “I am certain they will be solid corporate citizens and great employers. We look forward to their future success and growth in our area.”
“The Franklin County Industrial Building Authority in partnership with the City of Lavonia is excited to welcome Jarrett Foods to Franklin County, industries such as Jarrett Foods continue to bring a high level of industry diversity and job creation, we are excited to be a part of their future growth in our community,” IBA Executive Director Tonya Powers said.
“I am excited for Franklin County and the City of Lavonia,” IBA Chairman and Franklin Springs Mayor Lee Moore said. “Jarrett Foods will complement our already strong agriculture industry.”
Complete details will be in the Oct. 12 issue of the Franklin County Citizen Leader.