#United States #Wayne-Sanderson Farms #Harrison Poultry #Golden Goodness #Oakwood, Georgia

Wayne-Sanderson Farms Strengthens Its Poultry Footprint with Harrison Poultry Acquisition

In a move poised to reshape the poultry sector, Wayne-Sanderson Farms has officially acquired Harrison Poultry, a prominent Georgia-based chicken producer famed for its exceptional 'Golden Goodness' line, which encompasses traditional, international, and halal poultry products. This acquisition, effective immediately, facilitates the transfer of all Harrison Poultry’s assets, including key production facilities, hatcheries, and a feed mill associated with operations in Bethlehem and Crawfordville, Georgia. Integrated operations are set to commence promptly, with management anticipating minimal disruption to ongoing activities.

Kevin McDaniel, President and CEO of Wayne-Sanderson Farms, expressed enthusiasm about the union, stating, "We are proud to welcome the Harrison Poultry team into the Wayne-Sanderson Farms family. Our values align closely. Both organizations prioritize quality, whether it be in our workforce, our farm partners, or our products. We foresee a smooth transition ahead."

The groundwork for this acquisition was laid earlier this year as part of Wayne-Sanderson's strategic growth plans, aimed at enhancing operational capabilities and expanding its portfolio. After evaluating the compatibility of their respective operations and corporate cultures, the two companies embarked on negotiations to finalize the acquisition.

Founded in 1958 by R. Harold Harrison, Harrison Poultry has established itself as a stalwart in the poultry industry, continuously evolving under his visionary leadership. Following his passing, his family maintained a commitment to growth, investing significantly in the local economies of rural Georgia.

Jim Skidmore, Harrison Poultry’s President and CEO, remarked on the transition, “We are grateful to all who contributed to the success of Harrison Poultry. From the onset, our main objective was securing a future that benefits our employees, farmers, and customers. Partnering with Wayne-Sanderson Farms feels like a natural fit to continue the legacy of Mr. Harrison.”

Transaction Insights

Details of the acquisition remain confidential, with no financial specifics disclosed. However, all assets of Harrison Poultry will be under the Wayne-Sanderson umbrella effective immediately, and operational leadership will continue with McDaniel at the helm.

BofA Securities acted as the exclusive financial advisor to Wayne-Sanderson Farms during this transaction, while BakerHostetler served as transaction counsel and Proskauer Rose provided antitrust counsel. Similarly, Stephens acted as the financial advisor to Harrison Poultry, with Eversheds Sutherland facilitating legal counsel.

About Wayne-Sanderson Farms

Wayne-Sanderson Farms stands as the third-largest poultry producer in the United States, distinguished by its dedication to ethical business practices and community engagement. Operating across several states, the company boasts a workforce of more than 27,000 and partners with over 2,000 farms, aiming to deliver high-quality poultry products to a diverse set of customers in retail, foodservice, and institutional segments. The company proudly operates under multiple brand names, including SANDERSON FARMS®, COVINGTON FARMS®, and NAKED TRUTH®, and is recognized as the