Ozark Mountain Poultry (OMP) plans to acquire a chicken processing plant that ConAgra Foods intends to close in July, according to company release.
ConAgra announced March 6 that the company will close its Batesville poultry plant transferring the production to other ConAgra facilities.
Ed Fryer and Rogers-based OMP will retrofit the facility to accommodate a new poultry processing line that produces and processes antibiotic-free chickens for foodservice and retail customers under the Forester Farmer's Market brand.
In 2013 OMP bought a former Pilgrim's Pride plant in Batesville, reopened it and created approximately 250 jobs. The company plans to create at least 225 jobs when it reopens the ConAgra plant later this year.
Fryer, former University of Arkansas professor, continues to grow the OMP business by providing niche products driven by increasing consumer demands.