Broiler breeding company continues to grow regional footprint due to high demand in North America and beyond
HUNTSVILLE, Ala. – In response to a strong demand for broiler breeding stock throughout North America and across the globe, Aviagen® recently announced that it expects to begin construction on a new hatchery in September of this year. The company has selected the strategic location of Longview, Texas, for this 9th member of its North American hatchery fleet, and the first in the state of Texas. Slated for completion in July 2022, the brand new state-of-the-art hatchery will represent an estimated investment of $27 million and will bring 95 new full-time jobs to the Longview area. With the ability to set 1.1 million eggs per week, the Parent Stock hatchery will supply customers both domestically in North America and internationally.
According to Vice President of Operations Jason Mack, Longview was chosen for its close proximity to regional and international airports, as well as its biosecure location away from other bird populations.
“After a long, research-intensive search for the ideal location for our new hatchery, we unanimously chose Longview, a city with a robust labor pool, good work ethic of its citizens, and a strong infrastructure for agribusiness,” explained Mack. “We are looking forward to becoming part of Longview and doing our part to promote the success of this thriving community.”
“Even throughout the pandemic, our North American customers have enjoyed a strong demand for healthy, affordable chicken meat,” added President of Aviagen North America Marc de Beer.
“We are committed to securing the supply of quality Parent Stock to help our customers put food on the tables of families throughout North America and around the world. The new hatchery in Longview will play a big part in this goal.”
“On behalf of the LEDCO Board, we are thrilled that Aviagen has chosen to locate their new facility in Longview,” said Natalie Lynch, LEDCO Board Chairman. “Aviagen will bring a diverse set of jobs to our community, which will be great for our workforce. This project is also further evidence that Longview is on the map for global companies and that makes us very excited for the future of city.”
Stay tuned for more information on this brand new and important hatchery for Aviagen’s North American operations.