Conagra Brands announces US$220M expansion in Fayetteville poultry facility
Company plans multi-year investment to grow chicken production and create over 100 new jobs
USA – Conagra Brands confirmed plans to expand its existing manufacturing plant in Fayetteville, Arkansas, through a multi-year project valued at approximately US$220 million.
The expansion is expected to create more than 100 new positions over the next five years, contributing to local employment and the regional manufacturing workforce.
Craig Weiss, senior vice president of supply chain at Conagra Brands, stated that the investment will support growth in the company’s frozen foods division and reflects Conagra’s ongoing focus on supply chain improvements.
Construction at the Fayetteville facility is scheduled to begin later this year, with the aim of significantly increasing chicken production capacity to meet anticipated demand.
The Fayetteville plant currently produces ready-to-eat meals for brands including Hungry-Man®, Banquet®, Healthy Choice®, Gardein®, and evol®, manufacturing around 15 million cases annually.
Company officials highlighted that the investment demonstrates Conagra’s continued presence in Fayetteville, where it has operated for several years, and aligns with its long-term growth plans for its protein product lines.
Conagra Brands operates as one of North America’s major branded food companies, combining a century-long history of food production with ongoing efforts in product development and operational efficiency.
Its portfolio includes Birds Eye®, Duncan Hines®, Healthy Choice®, Marie Callender’s®, Reddi-wip®, Slim Jim®, and Angie’s® BOOMCHICKAPOP®, among other brands, reflecting a mix of frozen, shelf-stable, and snack items.
The company reported nearly US$12 billion in net sales for fiscal 2025, with its headquarters located in Chicago, Illinois.
Conagra’s announcement follows a broader trend of investment in U.S. food manufacturing as companies adjust to changing consumer preferences and aim to increase capacity for protein-focused products.
The Fayetteville expansion will position Conagra to meet growing demand while maintaining existing production lines and supporting innovation across its meal and frozen food brands.
Industry observers note that large-scale investments like this can have a measurable effect on regional economies by adding jobs, increasing local supply chain activity, and expanding production capabilities for nationally distributed products.
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