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Food Processing Industry in Arkansas

 

Arkansas has an abundance of resources to help food processing companies succeed. The Arkansas Economic Development Commission works directly with food processing companies looking to start-up, expand or relocate. In addition, we assist companies with finding the best incentives so companies are able to make money quickly and efficiently. 

There were 522 food and beverage companies in Arkansas at the end of 2022. These companies employed 55,130 people. Arkansas is home to Tyson Foods and numerous other food processing facilities, including Nestle, JBS USA, Kraft Heinz, Mars Inc., Cargill Inc., Hormel Foods Corp, Riceland Foods, Pilgrim’s Pride, ConAgra Brands Inc., Land O’ Frost and Frito-Lay, Inc.

Arkansas has the 5th largest percentage of food processing workers in the United States. The growth rate of the food and beverage industry from 2017 to 2022 was 6 percent in Arkansas.

The food processing industry is booming in Arkansas and continues to grow exponentially. Eight of the top 10 food and beverage companies by revenue in the world have manufacturing facilities in the state. 

Arkansas is meeting the workforce needs for food processing companies. The state now has the second-largest number of food processing workers in the US and Arkansas has responded to industry growth by modernizing the workforce.

food and beverage companies in arkansas

Food & Beverage Industry Blog Posts

Delta Dirt Distillery Co-Founder Returns Home, Finds Success in Arkansas

 July 24, 2023

Delta Dirt Distillery co-founder Harvey Williams has found success with his small business in Helena-West Helena, Arkansas.

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Arkansas Ranked #3 for Food Processing in the United States

 August 05, 2021

Arkansas is the third-highest ranked state for food processing, according to a 2021 Business Facilities report.

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