Warren County, Mo. – Warren County has been chosen as the site for a new beef processing plant by the American Foods Group (AFG). A press release from Gov. Mike Parson estimates that the plant will bring 1,300 jobs to the area and generate $1 billion in economic impact in Missouri. 

AFG is a Wisconsin-based company that plans to invest $450 million in Warren County for the new processing plant. The plant will be built between Wright City and Foristell if a final agreement can be approved, and annual payroll is estimated to be over $80 million. 

“Missouri is able to compete for projects of this magnitude because of our strong agriculture community and business-friendly economy,” Parson said. “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.”

The Missouri Cattlemen’s Association estimates that the new plant will be able to process 2,400 cattle annually once it is fully operational in 2024. Much of the infrastructure for the plant will need to be built, most notably the wastewater processing system. 

AFG could receive $20 million in tax incentives through the Missouri Works Program and Warren County could receive about $36 million in subsidies as a part of the plan. Additionally, the company would receive $2 million from Missouri One Start for the purposes of training and recruitment. The Missouri Development Finance Board also plans to contribute $14.6 million in bonds to assist the project. 

The new plant will be built about ten miles from the expanded GM truck and van assembly plant in Wentzville. The addition of these two plants are sure to bring jobs and economic growth to the greater St. Louis area.