Michigan to get $255.7m pork processing plant

The Coldwater township in Michigan will soon get a new Clemens Food Group pork processing plant that is expected to generate around $255.7m in total capital, creating 810 new jobs.

The project was announced under the Michigan Strategic Fund (MSF) by the Michigan Economic Development Corporation.

The Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development (MDARD) worked with a group of Michigan pork producers for around three years considering the merits of a pork processing plant in Michigan. A $100,000 MDARD grant was used by producers to conduct a feasibility assessment for a pork processing plant in the state.

Governor Rick Snyder said: "The new project in Coldwater township is agricultural entrepreneurism at its best with producers, the state of Michigan and local government working together to bring 800 new jobs to our state.

"The Clemens family is a recognised leader in pork production and its investment here signals to executives of all industries across the country that Michigan is the place to do business."

Clemens Food Group CEO Doug Clemens said: "Today’s announcement marks a major milestone in the history of our company and the future of pork production in the state of Michigan.

"On behalf of our more than 2,000 employees, our family shareholders and our family farm partners who have joined us in this venture, we thank governor Rick Snyder and leaders in Michigan and Coldwater and Coldwater Township for having the vision to see the opportunities to position the state to compete in the global pork market."

The company has also considered Ohio for a Midwest expansion of its pork processing operations, but chose Michigan due to the state and community support, as well as site feasibility and labor force preparedness.

MDARD director Jamie Clover Adams said: "This decision by the Clemens family only underscores that Michigan’s food and agriculture sector is ripe for innovative business opportunity, economic development, and new jobs. It’s a growing industry and we’re excited to have a pork processing plant back in the Great Lakes State.

"The project further highlights the commitment and partnership by local and state officials, economic development groups and private industry to bring new companies and investment into Michigan."