News Summary
Wayne-Sanderson Farms has officially acquired Harrison Poultry, enhancing its production capabilities and expanding its market presence. The acquisition includes all assets of Harrison Poultry, aiming to maintain operational stability for employees and customers. Kevin McDaniel continues as CEO, as the company aims for growth and efficiency in the competitive poultry market. This acquisition reflects ongoing trends of consolidation in the food production industry, promising to benefit both companies and consumers in Georgia.
Watkinsville, Georgia – Wayne-Sanderson Farms has officially acquired Harrison Poultry, a Georgia-based poultry producer, effective immediately. This acquisition will enhance Wayne-Sanderson Farms’ production capabilities and expand its footprint within the poultry industry.
The acquisition includes the transfer of all Harrison Poultry assets, such as live production facilities, hatcheries, feed mills, manufacturing operations, and transportation facilities related to Harrison’s locations in Bethlehem and Crawfordville, Georgia. Integrated operations between the two companies are set to commence immediately, with minimal changes anticipated in day-to-day operations for employees and customers.
Kevin McDaniel will continue to serve as the President and CEO of Wayne-Sanderson Farms following the acquisition. Under McDaniel’s leadership, Wayne-Sanderson Farms has established itself as the third-largest poultry producer in the United States, holding a market share of approximately 8%.
Harrison Poultry is particularly recognized for its proprietary range of poultry products branded as “Golden Goodness,” which also includes halal offerings. Its acquisition aligns with Wayne-Sanderson Farms’ strategic growth initiative, as both companies share complementary product offerings and similar corporate values.
Founded in 1958 by R. Harold Harrison, Harrison Poultry has been a significant player in Georgia’s rural economy, with the Harrison family consistently investing in the company’s growth. As of the past year, Harrison Poultry processed an impressive 5.66 million pounds of ready-to-cook poultry weekly, making it the 21st largest poultry producer in the United States. Additionally, in 2023, the company expanded its production by 20% and added 200 new employees to accommodate growth.
The integration of operations aims to maintain the current product lines while leveraging the strengths of both companies. The acquisition process involved significant legal and financial undertakings, with BofA Securities serving as exclusive financial advisor to Wayne-Sanderson Farms, and BakerHostetler acting as transaction counsel. Proskauer Rose provided antitrust counsel for Wayne-Sanderson Farms, while Stephens acted as the financial and banking advisor to Harrison Poultry. Legal counsel for Harrison Poultry was provided by Eversheds Sutherland.
The acquisition marks a transformative moment for Wayne-Sanderson Farms as it seeks to further secure its position in the competitive poultry market. It also reflects ongoing trends in the food production industry, where consolidation allows for greater operational efficiency and product innovation.
As the poultry industry continues to evolve, company officials emphasize the importance of maintaining quality and ensuring that customers receive the same high standards of poultry products they have come to expect from both Wayne-Sanderson Farms and Harrison Poultry.
In conclusion, the acquisition not only solidifies Wayne-Sanderson Farms’ status in the poultry sector but also promises to enhance the operational capacity and product range of both companies, ultimately benefiting consumers and the agricultural community in Georgia.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
- PR Newswire: Wayne-Sanderson Farms Acquires Harrison Poultry
- WattAgnet: Wayne-Sanderson Farms Acquires Harrison Poultry
- The Poultry Site: Wayne-Sanderson Farms Acquires Harrison Poultry
- Clarion Ledger: Wayne-Sanderson Farms Major Changes
- Food Market: Wayne-Sanderson Farms Acquisition
- Wikipedia: Poultry Industry
- Google Search: Wayne-Sanderson Farms
- Google Scholar: Harrison Poultry
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Poultry
- Google News: Wayne-Sanderson Farms Harrison Poultry
Author: STAFF HERE SAVANNAH WRITER
SAVANNAH STAFF WRITER The SAVANNAH STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HERESavannah.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Savannah, Chatham County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Savannah Music Festival, St. Patrick's Day Parade, and Savannah Jazz Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Savannah Area Chamber of Commerce and United Way of the Coastal Empire, plus leading businesses in aerospace, education, and logistics that power the local economy such as Gulfstream Aerospace, Savannah College of Art and Design, and Colonial Group. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAtlanta.com and HEREAugusta.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Georgia's dynamic landscape.
