News Summary
Thomas Foods International USA has acquired the former Tyson Foods plant in Jacksonville for $3.55 million, aiming to revitalize the facility and create new jobs. The $28 million investment will transform the site into a modern meat-processing operation, expected to generate up to 100 jobs with competitive salaries. This initiative, known as Project Pan, is part of a broader economic development plan approved by the Jacksonville City Council, reflecting the company’s commitment to reinvigorate the local economy after significant job losses.
Jacksonville, Florida – Thomas Foods International Expands Operations with Plant Acquisition
Thomas Foods International USA has acquired the former Tyson Foods Inc. plant located at 5441 W. Fifth St. in Northwest Jacksonville for $3.55 million. This significant acquisition was finalized on September 17 and is part of a comprehensive plan to revitalize the facility and stimulate job creation in the region.
The plant, which ceased operations on January 8, 2024, led to the loss of 219 jobs when Tyson Foods closed its doors. Thomas Foods International, an Australian company that specializes in meat processing and exporting beef, lamb, goat, and seafood products, is set to reinvigorate the site as part of an economic development initiative dubbed Project Pan. This initiative received approval from the Jacksonville City Council on August 26, 2025, which includes $800,000 in city incentives aimed at establishing a high-capacity meat-processing operation.
Thomas Foods International plans to invest $28 million in transforming the aging facility—originally built in 1974—into a modern operational space spanning 50,000 square feet over its 4.29-acre site. This substantial upgrade is expected to enhance Jacksonville’s position in the meat processing industry, offering the potential for increased competition with neighboring Savannah, Georgia, for meat import traffic.
The project is expected to create up to 100 new jobs within the first three years of operations, with average annual salaries projected at $59,211. Additionally, each employee will receive a benefits package valued at approximately $16,000. Completion of the Project Pan revitalization will require the creation of a minimum of 10 new jobs by 2029 to retain the incentive grant, with a clause that allows the grant to be terminated if this requirement is not met.
The facility is anticipated to produce approximately 1 million pounds of finished meat products each week, marking a considerable output that will contribute to the local economy. Thomas Foods International operates the Lakeside Processing Facility in Swedesboro, New Jersey, where it generates over 100 million pounds of meat annually, showcasing its capability in large-scale meat processing.
Thomas Foods was established in 1988 by Chris Thomas and is currently managed by his son, Darren Thomas. The company’s operations extend across multiple regions including Australia, the U.S., China, Japan, and Europe. Through this acquisition, they aim to reinforce their presence in the United States’ meat market.
Bruss Co. of Springdale, Arkansas, sold the Jacksonville plant to Thomas Foods International through TFI USA Properties LLC. The plant had previously been purchased by Bruss in 2012 for $1.5 million, signifying a substantial appreciation in the facility’s value over the years.
This acquisition stands not only as a pivotal moment for Thomas Foods but also marks a revitalization of the Jacksonville area after the significant job losses from Tyson’s closure. As the project unfolds, it promises to create new employment opportunities and bolster the local economy, positioning Jacksonville as a key player in the nation’s meat processing landscape.
With the expansion of Thomas Foods International, the company looks set to make a significant impact on the Jacksonville community through job creation and economic development, reflecting a trend of investment in the local economy following industrial shifts.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Thomas Foods International Acquires Former Tyson Plant
Additional Resources
- Jax Daily Record: Thomas Foods International Buys Tyson Foods Plant
- Meatingplace: Mystery Processor Revealed After Acquisition of Tyson Facility
- Wattagnet: Thomas Foods International Buys Closed Tyson Plant
- Wikipedia: Meat Processing
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Meat
Author: STAFF HERE JACKSONVILLE WRITER
The JACKSONVILLE STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREJacksonville.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Jacksonville, Duval 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 the Jacksonville Jazz Festival, Riverside Arts Market, and World of Nations Celebration. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Jacksonville Chamber of Commerce and JAXUSA Partnership, plus leading businesses in logistics, healthcare, and entertainment that power the local economy such as CSX Corporation, Baptist Health, and VyStar Credit Union. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREOrlando.com, HEREStPetersburg.com, HERETallahassee.com, and HERETampa.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Florida's dynamic landscape.
