In a December 29^th announcement, Cal-Maine Foods announced that it will acquire the redundant broiler processing plant in Dexter, MO. from Tyson Foods.  Cal-Maine intends converting the plant to an egg grading facility that presumably will include manufacture of egg products.  Tyson will also enter into agreements with some of the displaced Tyson contract farmers to convert broiler growing facilities to produce cage-free and pasture-raised eggs. 

Previously Cal-Maine Foods extended production contracts to growers for Townsend’s in North Carolina following the bankruptcy of the family-owned enterprise.

Sherman Miller, president and CEO of Cal-Maine Foods stated, “We are pleased to announce the proposed acquisition of the assets of Tyson former broiler processing facility in Dexter, MO.  This transaction is consistent with our growth strategy to expand our business through selective acquisitions in addition to our organic growth initiatives.”  Miller added, “We look forward to cooperating with the Tyson team to close the transaction and to working with contract growers who will support our shell-egg production capability.  As we extend our market reach, we remain focused on the efficient and sustainable management of our existing and acquired operations and meeting the demands of our customers.”