America’s Heartland Packing, the newest beef harvest facility of American Foods Group, officially opened its doors on April 10, 2025. The facility was designed from the ground up with people and purpose at its core, focusing on employee well-being, community engagement, producer partnerships and environmental stewardship with an $800 million capital investment.

After evaluating more than 3,000 counties across the continental US, AFG selected Warren County, Mo., as the ideal home for its newest facility, thanks to the state’s top-ranking cattle inventory, strong producer base and business-friendly climate. “This new beef processing facility represents not only an investment in our state’s strong agricultural industry, but also in our workforce, economy, and future,” said Gov. Mike Kehoe. “We congratulate America’s Heartland Packing on this milestone and look forward to the opportunities this facility will create for Missourians.” 

“At America’s Heartland Packing, our employees are at the heart of everything we do,” said John Kelly, vice president of America’s Heartland Packing. “From natural light-filled cafeterias and ergonomic workstations to climate-controlled barns and production floors, every detail is designed to create a safe, welcoming and rewarding workplace. This isn’t just a job — it’s a place where people can grow their careers, support their families and be part of something bigger.” 

The facility’s advanced automation and robotics are designed not to replace people, but to enhance their safety and success. These innovations reduce the need for repetitive or strenuous tasks while improving overall throughput, product quality and employee satisfaction. Additional features include an on-site employment center, comprehensive training and safety programs, and an employee meat store. 

Producers of all sizes — from family ranchers to large-scale operators — benefit from a facility built around transparency, trust and speed. America’s Heartland Packing offers:

• 2,400-head-per-day capacity with a mixed cattle supply
• A network of country cattle buyers that bid and buy your cattle daily
• On-site cattle buyers and instant payments
• Grade-yield live buying or hanging weight options
• Pull-through access for gooseneck trailers
• Modern cattle barn with climate control and fly-thwarting fans
• Streamlined receiving systems to minimize truck congestion 

“We’re proud to offer a producer-focused experience that puts honesty, efficiency and respect first,” said David Jagodzinske, president and COO of American Foods Group. “America’s Heartland Packing is more than a facility — it’s a promise to our partners that we’re here for the long haul.” 

This is the first and only beef harvest facility in the world to earn LEED Green Building Certification, reflecting a commitment to environmentally responsible construction, energy efficiency and operational performance. The facility is a zero-exposure building, meaning no untreated air, water or waste leaves the site. Inside, a cutting-edge wastewater treatment system minimizes environmental impact and protects the local watershed. AFG also invested in advanced rendering technology that removes odors, ensuring clean air for the facility and its neighbors. 

AFG’s investment in Warren County goes far beyond job creation. With over 700 employees already working at the site and plans to grow, the facility has become a cornerstone of local economic development. AFG is prioritizing local recruiting, sourcing materials from Missouri suppliers and offering talent development and career advancements to help team members build long-term careers close to home. 

The company is also committed to supporting the communities where its employees live and work. In a show of long-term partnership with Wright City, AFG recently celebrated the grand opening of the America’s Heartland Packing Stadium at Wright City High School, a symbol of the company’s investment in youth, education and community spirit. 

Additional contributions to local charities, schools, and civic programs underscore AFG’s belief in being more than a business, but also a neighbor and civic partner. As a committed partner, AFG partnered with the local water district to build a state-of-the-art wastewater treatment plant that also serves the surrounding community.

Source: American Foods Group