Hertzog Meat Co., a Missouri-based meat processor, is expanding in Butler, creating 22 new jobs. The company’s expansion includes the opening of Hertzog South, a new retail and further processing facility that will feature expanded protein processing capabilities, a new retail meat market, and additional value-added production for sliced, marinated and ready-to-cook products.

“We’re always proud to see a Missouri-made employer like Hertzog Meat Co. continue to grow and succeed,” said Governor Mike Kehoe. “This company’s expansion in Butler is a welcome addition to the community that will further support our state’s agriculture industry. We commend the Hertzog family for their commitment to quality products, local farmers, and economic growth.”

Hertzog Meat Co.’s new facility will allow for continued growth of its foodservice capabilities, expanded production of premium beef, and further processing capabilities for beef, pork, chicken and value-added products. It will also expand the company’s retail space and product assortment, giving local customers greater access to high-quality and specialty proteins, such as premium dry-aged beef.

“Our family is thrilled to expand our footprint in Butler and keep building something truly special for this community,” said Jim Hertzog of Hertzog Meat Co. “Hertzog South marks the exciting next chapter in our growth, enabling us to deliver even more premium, locally sourced protein to our customers while creating new opportunities to support our local farmers and agriculture.”

Hertzog Meat Co.’s project represents a multimillion-dollar investment in the Butler community and will support its continued growth as a vertically integrated meat company that raises, sources, processes and distributes proteins throughout the United States. The expansion is expected to create additional jobs in the Butler area while strengthening demand for Missouri-raised livestock and supporting regional agriculture.

“We’re deeply grateful for the unwavering support from Butler, Bates County, and the State of Missouri,” said Todd Hertzog of Hertzog Meat Co. “This expansion opens significant doors for our dedicated team and the broader community. We have come a long way. Our relentless commitment to quality and doing things the right way is paying dividends - and I couldn’t be prouder of what this incredible group has accomplished.”

Hertzog South is expected to begin operations in late April 2026 with a grand opening celebration planned for April 24. The event will include a ribbon cutting at 10 a.m., a community event featuring Steakhouse Burgers served from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m., and other activities. Hertzog Meat Co. will provide additional details as the opening date approaches.

“DED is excited to support Hertzog Meat Co.’s expansion in Butler,” said Michelle Hataway, Director of the Department of Economic Development. “These new jobs will boost Bates County’s economy while allowing the company to expand into new product lines and further strengthen its existing operations. Another example of Missouri businesses growing and succeeding.”

For this expansion, Hertzog Meat Co. will benefit from the Missouri Works program, a tool that helps companies expand and retain workers by providing access to capital through withholdings or tax credits for job creation. 

“Hertzog is a homegrown Bates County company, and we’re glad to see them growing right here in Butler,” said Butler Mayor Jim Henry. “This expansion means more jobs, stronger support for our ag community, and a growing local economy. They’re the kind of company we want here in Butler, one that’s dedicated to our community for the long term. We appreciate everyone who helped make this project happen and what it means for the future of Butler and the region.”

Source: Missouri Department of Economic Development