Warren County has been selected by American Foods Group (AFG) as the planned location for a new state of the art beef processing facility, pending final approval.
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Once established, the facility would create more than 1,200 new jobs and generate $1 billion in economic impact in the state of Missouri.
“Missouri is able to compete for projects of this magnitude because of our strong agriculture community and business friendly economy,” said Governor Mike Parson.
“As a third generation farmer and cattleman myself, I know how beneficial having a company like American Foods Group in Warren County will be for Missouri's farmers and consumers. We are excited that Missouri is the planned location and remain committed to supporting the company as this project continues to develop in our state.”
AFG would potentially invest $450 million in the Warren County region, generating increased tax revenues for Missouri schools and other tax supported services in the region. With an expected annual payroll of more than $80 million, at a wage above the Warren County average, this project would support quality livelihoods and boost consumer spending at Missouri businesses.
”The beef industry is a huge part of Missouri’s economy and locating a processing facility in Warren County makes perfect sense,” said Mike Deering, Executive Vice President of the Missouri Cattlemen’s Association. “Bringing processing this close to cattle production reduces the costs and energy needed, and it is good for Missouri cattle producers and consumers.”
“The STL 2030 Jobs Plan specifically highlights the critical role the region plays in global agriculture, noting that 50% of U.S. crops and livestock are produced within 500 miles of the greater metropolitan St. Louis area.
"This investment in good paying jobs in Warren County directly advances priorities outlined in the plan and further demonstrates our global agricultural leadership,” said Jason Hall, Chief Executive Officer of Greater St. Louis, Inc.
“We will continue to work with partners in Warren County, Governor Parson and his team, and everyone involved to support the company and make this opportunity a success.” ■
International measures on illegal deforestation are beginning to put pressure on Brazil, where banks have agreed to deny credit to meat packers that purchase cattle from such areas, according to the Brazilian Federation of Banks (Febraban).