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.
Unique dishes and drinks are an important part of every state’s culture. In Arkansas, the food and beverage manufacturing industry is a key player in the state’s economy. Arkansas is home to more than 300 employers in the industry, and the state is dedicated to growing and maintaining its workforce through postsecondary education, certification programs and trainings.
Our latest infographic highlights Arkansas’ top food and beverage manufacturers, looks at the current industry workforce, examines concerns food and beverage industry leaders have when making location decisions, and demonstrates how Arkansas is meeting the need for a highly trained food and beverage workforce.
Arkansas’ food and beverage advantages are clear, and companies looking to start, expand or relocate their food or beverage businesses in Arkansas will find our state ripe with opportunity.
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