OAKWOOD, Ga. – Wayne Farms LLC announced Friday it will phase out its College Park further processing facility by the end of the first quarter of 2009.

The company said the phase out is part of an ongoing effort to increase company operating efficiencies.

Elton Maddox, president and CEO of Wayne Farms, said the decision was based on a variety of factors, including the increasing efficiency by moving production to other facilities.

“Our long term business strategy includes the most efficient allocation of assets and resources,” said Maddox. “The College Park operation has been a part of our success, but changing market conditions required us to take a hard look at our business from the standpoint of customer needs and long term asset management.”

The company said there will be no supply interruption to any customers during the transition.

The 600 employees affected by the phased closure will be offered positions at other facilities where possible, according to Wayne Farms. Vendors and suppliers will be notified regarding any impacts that may occur as a result of the closure. The company is actively working with interested parties on a potential sale of the land and building.

Source: Wayne Farms LLC