AMARILLO, TEXAS — Tyson Foods announced it will invest $200 million to expand and upgrade operations and build a new well-being area at its Amarillo, Texas, beef plant.

Construction will begin later in the fall and includes a 143,000-square-foot addition to the existing beef complex that will house upgraded well-being areas, including locker rooms, cafeteria and office space. The existing operations floor also will be expanded and upgraded. Tyson expects to complete the project sometime in 2024. The facility employs 4,000 with an annual payroll of $180 million.

Tyson believes the investment will modernize the complex and prioritizes team member safety, ergonomics and food safety, while incorporating enhanced automation and new technologies.

New space from the project also falls in line with several of the company’s sustainability efforts through energy and water conservation improvements, including specially designed water utility equipment, pumps, and piping will automate and allow for a reduction in water usage.

“We’re committed to be the most sought-after place to work and while we’ve invested heavily in new benefits for our team, this project will improve the onsite work experience for our team members, while making our operations more efficient,” said Shane Miller, group president, Tyson Foods Fresh Meats.

Tyson awarded $400,000 to the Wesley Community Center and Maverick Boys and Girls Club of Amarillo in 2021. The funds refurbished the facilities which then accommodated the children of Tyson team members employed at the company’s Amarillo beef plant.

Tyson Foods’ beef business currently operates beef plants in Texas, Kansas, Nebraska, Illinois and Washington. The company receives cattle from close to 90 independent cattle suppliers in Texas and it is estimated Tyson Foods’ operations have a total economic impact of nearly $3 billion in the state.