The project, which will begin on 12 October, 2016, includes the removal or relocation of existing processing equipment and the installation of new equipment to enable the facility to transition from a fresh foodservice and debone operation to a debone portioning operation by July 2017.

The transition will enable the facility to process larger birds and provide greater efficiency and service to key customers. Upon completion of the project, the plant will increase its live weight production by about 1 million pounds per week. It will also provide more than 155 additional jobs and will provide for construction of 75 additional chicken houses by local family farms.

"We're excited about the opportunities the Mayfield expansion will provide to our customers and the local community," said Bill Lovette, Pilgrim's CEO.

"This investment is a key part of our recently announced cash flow reinvestment plan to provide key customers with opportunities to accelerate sales and grow their businesses with a trusted partner."

The expansion is part of Pilgrim's $190 million strategic capital investment plan to enhance growth with key customers, reinvest cash flow back into the business and improve efficiencies consistent with the Company's continued pursuit of operational excellence.

"Pilgrim's, a strong corporate partner in Kentucky since 1990, has grown its business across the globe and has become a well-respected household name," said Gov. Matt Bevin. "We are thankful for the company's reinvestment in Graves County. It will have tremendous impact on southwest Kentucky through new jobs, additional production and increased sales for area growers, farmers and feed suppliers. We are working every day to make the Commonwealth even more supportive of developments like this, and are grateful to Pilgrim's for leading the way for others to follow."

Launched in 1990, the Mayfield complex was the first poultry processing facility in the state of Kentucky and has been a proud member of the community for more than 25 years.

"Today's announcement is a welcome sign for both Pilgrim's and the Mayfield community," said Eric Rotermund, Pilgrim's Mayfield complex manager.

"The expansion solidifies our presence in the state of Kentucky as a respected employer for the long term and ensures that Pilgrim's Mayfield will continue its tradition of quality products and service for years to come."