A cluster of chicken growers, previously linked to supplying Tyson Foods’ Dexter facility in Missouri, has taken legal action against the corporation. The lawsuit, filed in late December with the Stoddard County Circuit Court, alleges Tyson concealed its intentions to close the plant, causing financial strain on the growers.
The plaintiffs, feeling aggrieved, state that Tyson’s top brass had knowledge of the plant’s impending shutdown by November of the previous year. However, the growers remained in the dark, leading them to amass more debt and pour additional resources into their farms, all while under the impression of an ongoing partnership with Tyson.
The aggrieved parties are now seeking compensation, each aiming for $25,000 in damages. Their claims also factor in the economic hardships they faced due to the abrupt cessation of the Dexter plant’s operations.
Tyson Foods, a dominant figure in the broiler chicken domain, operates an integrated production framework where it oversees the chicken’s journey from inception to processing. Despite this, the growers argue that Tyson’s influence extended beyond mere oversight, significantly impacting their farming methodologies and choices.
These growers had banked on long-standing relationships with Tyson, grounded in promises and verbal commitments. Their expectations were shattered when the Dexter facility, which had stood for twenty years, was closed down. This move was part of a broader restructuring strategy by Tyson, which saw similar closures across multiple states and a focus shift to newer production hubs.
While Tyson remained tight-lipped regarding the legal proceedings, CEO Donnie King had previously alluded to potential opportunities for affected growers, suggesting collaborations with other facilities in the vicinity. He also hinted at the possibility of contractual negotiations to ease the transition.
Tyson’s previous official statement underscored the importance of their relationship with growers, emphasizing mutual commitments to animal welfare and safety protocols.
Meanwhile, Cal-Maine Foods is making waves with its proposal to acquire and revamp Tyson’s dormant Dexter site into an egg-centric facility. This ambitious project is anticipated to bring around 96 employment opportunities, as announced by Cal-Maine’s leadership.
Sherman Miller, at the helm of Cal-Maine, conveyed ongoing discussions with both Tyson and potential contract farmers. However, Miller emphasized the unique challenges and nuances associated with poultry versus egg farming.
