Coast Packing Company Launches New Edible Fats and Oils Refinery in Amarillo
On February 4, 2025, Coast Packing Company celebrated a significant milestone by breaking ground on a state-of-the-art Edible Fats and Oils Refinery and Packaging Facility located at 9400 Centerport Blvd. in Amarillo, Texas. This momentous event marks a new chapter for the 103-year-old, family-owned business, renowned for its commitment to quality and innovation in the food industry.
Coast Packing, which has been in operation for over a century, has firmly established itself as a trusted supplier of animal fat shortenings in the United States, including popular products like lard and beef tallow. The new refinery is poised to enhance the company's production capacity, thereby reinforcing its position as a leading provider of high-quality edible fats and oils. This project aims not only to modernize operations but also to respond to increasing consumer demands for sustainable and locally sourced food products.
Eric R. Gustafson, CEO of Coast Packing Company, emphasized the significance of this robust venture, stating, "This groundbreaking does not merely signify the start of construction; it heralds an exciting new chapter for Coast Packing Company and the Amarillo community. Our commitment to quality, tradition, and sustainability will continue to lead us forward in the food industry."
The groundbreaking ceremony was attended by several prominent figures, including Doug Nelson, Senior Vice President of the Amarillo Economic Development Corporation (AEDC), and Amarillo's Mayor Cole Stanley. Mayor Stanley articulated the positive impact of the facility on the local economy, noting that it would create job opportunities for residents and contribute to the overall growth of Amarillo as a business-friendly city.
Planned to open in June 2026, the new facility will initially create approximately 30 jobs with an anticipated increase to 60 positions as the operation expands. This job creation effort aligns with Coast Packing's vision of investing in local communities and supporting economic development.
The new refinery facility will be a modern marvel. It will cover an expansive area, featuring a 10,000-square-foot refinery building with four levels and insulated panels towering to 80 feet. This structural design is dedicated to refining edible oils and fats. Additionally, the facility will include a Boiler House and a Tank Farm equipped with twelve 30-foot carbon steel tanks for storing essential raw materials streamlined through a new rail siding.
The packaging and warehouse aspect of the facility will encompass 36,000 square feet, incorporating packing operations, warehousing, and office space, designed with high safety and sanitary standards in mind. Coast Packing Company has partnered with Food Tech, Inc., a prominent player in food and beverage facility construction, to ensure the new site meets the industry's best practices.
In terms of sustainability, Coast Packing is dedicated to employing advanced technology that facilitates efficient and environmentally friendly operations, allowing the company to meet the growing consumer expectations for greener and healthier food options. By modernizing its processes, Coast Packing aims to leave a positive ecological footprint while reinforcing its legacy of quality.
Founded in 1922, Coast Packing Company has cultivated a reputation for excellence, consistently offering products that enhance the flavor, texture, and authenticity of culinary endeavors in kitchens across the nation. As part of its commitment to innovation, the company continues to blend traditional values with contemporary practices, ensuring a bright future for generations to come.
For more information about Coast Packing Company and its initiatives, visit their official website at
www.coastpacking.com.