The Wayne Farms Dobson Fresh Processing Facility, one of Surry County’s largest long-time employers, was named the Greater Mount Airy Chamber of Commerce Agribusiness of the Year at the organization’s annual Excellence in Business Awards event held at Cross Creek Country Club.
This is the first time the award has been given by the local chamber, recognizing businesses involved in significant agricultural operations in Surry County, Mount Airy, Pilot Mountain, Dobson or Elkin. Enterprises involved in farming, dairy, equine, poultry, produce, nurseries, vineyards, farm equipment, supplies and related areas of agriculture are eligible for the award.
“We’re proud to be recognized by the business community—our neighbors and friends here in Dobson and Surry County,” said Wayne Farms Complex Manager Paul Nordin, who has been at the Dobson Facility for more than 17 years. “This is a community where agriculture is appreciated, and that creates opportunities for everyone,” noted Nordin.
“We appreciate the quality of life here, and the support we get being part of the community.”
Wayne Farms has been in continuous operation in Dobson since 1980, expanding the plant, hatchery, feed mill and workforce along the way. Specializing in fresh and frozen poultry products, the Wayne Farms Dobson complex employs approximately 1,000 people from the local area. The 70,000 square foot facility processes 650,000 chickens weekly, all grown in partnership with 130 local broiler farms. The facility pays more than $275,000 in ad valorem, property and sales taxes, and amplifies local economic impact through purchases of supplies, equipment and services from the surrounding region.
