A southeastern Missouri family that has been involved in growing and supplying poultry to Tyson Foods has taken legal action against the company following Tyson’s decision to close its poultry processing plant in Dexter. The Kesler family, who filed the lawsuit in a Stoddard County court, alleges that the plant closure has left them with no workable alternatives, given the absence of any other chicken processing facility within a 45-mile radius of their farm.
According to the lawsuit, the Kesler family, which manages 14 chicken broiler houses, had made significant investments in their poultry operations based on Tyson’s recommendations. They believed they had established a lasting business arrangement with the company. However, Tyson’s announcement of the plant closure in Dexter has disrupted their business expectations and future prospects.
In August, Tyson revealed its plans to cease operations at several smaller plants, including the one in Dexter. This move has not only affected the Kesler family but also raised broader questions about the implications for local farmers and suppliers who have relied on the plant as a vital customer.
The lawsuit reflects the complex relationship between large food processing corporations and their suppliers, highlighting how changes in corporate decisions can significantly impact the livelihoods of local farmers. The Kesler family’s legal action seeks to address the disruption and losses they’ve incurred due to the sudden closure of the Tyson plant and the subsequent loss of their primary customer.
This case sheds light on the challenges faced by suppliers and farmers who are closely tied to larger corporations within the food supply chain. The outcome of this lawsuit could potentially set a precedent for similar cases in the future, where farmers and suppliers seek compensation and accountability when corporate decisions have detrimental effects on their businesses.
