Pilgrim’s expanding plant in Cold Spring, Minnesota

Pilgrim's Pride is investing $75 million to expand its poultry plant in Cold Spring, Minnesota.

(Greater St. Cloud Development Corporation)
(Greater St. Cloud Development Corporation)

Pilgrim's Pride is investing $75 million to expand its poultry plant in Cold Spring, Minnesota.

When the construction project is completed, as many as 130 new jobs will be created, according to a press release from the Greater St. Cloud Development Corporation (GSDC).

“Today’s announced expansion is an important strategic investment for Pilgrim’s, and it will help ensure our Cold Spring facility can grow its capacity to provide premium chicken products for people across the country,” Wesley Smith, Pilgrim’s Cold Spring complex manager, said in the release. “This news strengthens our ongoing commitment to this region, to our grower partners and of course to our team members.”

The investment will add 50,000 square feet of additional space to the facility and allow for increased daily production of high-quality chicken products, including the Pilgrim’s Just BARE brand. A portion of the expansion will create improved facilities for Pilgrim’s team members, such as a new cafeteria, more breakroom, lunchroom and bathroom space, and increased locker room capacity.

Pilgrim’s Pride obtained the plant in Cold Spring in 2017, when the company acquired GNP Company.

In August, the GSDC brought together representatives from Pilgrim’s, the State of Minnesota, Stearns County, City of Cold Spring and Xcel Energy to discuss infrastructure and other needs. These efforts led to approval earlier this week for a 10-year tax abatement by Stearns County, the City of Cold Spring and the Cold Spring School District.

“This was a major opportunity that needed quick actions by many organizations, all of which were committed to bringing this project to fruition,” said GSDC President Patti Gartland. “Pilgrim’s has long been a great member of this community and we’re pleased that up to 130 excellent, new jobs will be created for area residents.”

Pilgrim’s currently employs nearly 1,200 team members in Cold Spring and is an active supporter of the local community, including its recent announcement of a $575,000 investment as part of the company’s Hometown Strong initiative.

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