Daily’s Premium Meats has unveiled a significant $95 million investment aimed at expanding its bacon processing facility in St. Joseph, Missouri, as part of their strategic growth in the food and beverage industry trends.
This expansion, projected for completion by summer 2026, will introduce 111,000 square feet of additional space. Key developments will include new smokehouses, slicing rooms, and enhanced warehousing dedicated to bacon production. According to a statement by Daily’s Premium Meats, this initiative is expected to create around 100 new jobs, reinforcing its commitment to the local workforce.
Moreover, the expansion will increase bacon production capacity for both foodservice and retail sectors. Presently, the St. Joseph plant accounts for 2.5% of the nation’s bacon production. With the enhancements, this figure is anticipated to rise to 5%, showcasing a notable growth trajectory in the food and drink business.
Missouri Governor Mike Kehoe emphasized the importance of this move, stating: “This company’s [Daily’s] strategic decision to grow in northern Missouri is a testament to the region’s skilled workforce and ability to support leading manufacturers.”
In addition to increasing production space, Daily’s plans to revamp segments of its existing production zones, which opened in 2016, to integrate new technologies aimed at improving operational efficiency. Joe Richmond, Daily’s vice president and general manager, remarked, “Daily’s is proud to be part of the St. Joseph community, and this expansion will not only enhance our production capabilities for premium bacon products but also create valuable job opportunities, driving the economic growth of St. Joseph.”
The upgrade will incorporate advanced technology, such as in-line slicing to enhance efficiencies and yields, alongside equipment designed to optimize belly sizing and docking prior to palletization.
Furthermore, the Missouri Department of Economic Development highlighted that the expansion will leverage the Missouri Works program, which offers tax credits and incentives to support business growth and employee retention.
In addition to the St. Joseph facility, Daily’s Premium Meats operates bacon processing plants in Missoula, Montana, and Salt Lake City, Utah, thereby reinforcing their position within the evolving food and drink consumer trends.
