Eggs crack open hope in Dexter - MO

By Blake Jackson

The Missouri town of Dexter, still reeling from Tyson's chicken plant closure, has received a welcome boost. Cal-Maine Foods, a major egg producer, has signed a deal to purchase the shuttered facility and convert it into an egg grading center. 

This news brings a glimmer of hope to a community struggling after Tyson's decision to close the plant in October, affecting nearly 700 workers. While not a complete replacement for the lost jobs, Cal-Maine's arrival promises 96 new positions and potential additional investments in the future. 

"It's great for Dexter," declared City Administrator David Wyman. "We're excited to have them." He acknowledges, however, that the road to recovery remains long. "We need to push forward and attract new businesses." 

The egg grading facility will utilize the existing processing plant, while the hatchery and feed mill will also be put to use. This represents a win for local farmers who had previously supplied Tyson, as Cal-Maine plans to continue working with some of them. This is particularly crucial considering the limited transport distances for chickens due to animal welfare concerns. 

While the Dexter plant won't reach its former bustling state, Cal-Maine's presence offers a much-needed shot in the arm. It will revive economic activity, provide new job opportunities, and prevent the buildings from becoming a desolate symbol of closure. 

Wyman remains optimistic about the future, stating, "We're super proud of our town." He emphasizes, however, that the work isn't over. "We still have a lot of work left to do," he says. The city's focus is now on attracting another poultry producer to fill the remaining gap and further bolster Dexter's economy. 

The Cal-Maine deal is expected to be finalized in the third fiscal quarter, with operations commencing in summer 2024. While the journey to full recovery will require ongoing effort, the egg production plant marks a significant step forward for Dexter, offering hope and a renewed sense of optimism for the future. 

Photo Credit: gettyimages-branex