Walmart opens first company-run beef plant
Facility to produce packaged Angus beef for Midwest stores; 600 jobs created in Kansas
USA – Walmart Inc. has begun operations at its first fully owned and managed case-ready beef facility, marking a major step in the company’s ongoing effort to control more of its meat supply chain.
The 300,000-square-foot plant, located in Olathe, Kansas, will be responsible for turning fresh beef into pre-packaged cuts that are ready for retail shelves.
Once packaged, the beef products will be shipped to Walmart distribution centres that supply stores across the Midwest region.
According to Walmart, the facility will handle only Angus beef sourced from Sustainable Beef LLC, a company in which it holds a stake.
Walmart entered into a partnership with Sustainable Beef in 2022, following an equity investment aimed at strengthening its access to locally sourced cattle.
Sustainable Beef, based in North Platte, Nebraska, obtains cattle from farms within a 250-mile radius of its location, giving Walmart a closer and more defined supply network.
David Briggs, CEO of Sustainable Beef, said the facility represents the next phase in a long-term vision that began four years ago to bring quality beef products to Midwest consumers.
Walmart began developing this supply chain in 2019, when it brought in meat processors and producers to help chart a plan for controlling more of the beef production process.
The company officially announced plans to build the Olathe plant in 2022 as part of its broader goal to increase supply chain transparency and improve consistency in its beef products.
John Laney, executive vice president of Food at Walmart U.S., said the facility is intended to ensure a reliable source of affordable and quality meat for customers.
New jobs and local support
The Olathe facility is expected to employ around 600 people, offering new job opportunities in the local area.
During a grand opening event held on June 27, Walmart provided financial support to several local organizations as part of its community outreach.
Kansas Special Olympics received a grant of US$35,000, while the Boys & Girls Club of Greater Kansas City got US$20,000.
Additional grants included US$30,000 to Friends In Service of Heroes and US$5,000 to Mayor Bacon’s Book Club.
Walmart said these donations are meant to support programs near its new facility, reinforcing the company’s presence in the region.
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