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.
What do you think of when it comes to the food and beverage industry in Arkansas? For some, it may be Tyson Foods, one of the world’s largest food companies. And you may know Arkansas as a major rice producer, since 49% of the nation’s rice is produced here. Of course, we’re also well-known for our barbeque, cheese dip, and craft beer.
But you may not know that 23 out of the top 25 food and beverage companies by revenue in the world have manufacturing facilities in Arkansas. In fact, the food and beverage industry is booming here. In 2017, more than 300 food and beverage companies employed nearly 50,000 Arkansans, and a higher percentage of employed Arkansans work in the food industry than in any other state.
To deliver the full menu of data to you, the Arkansas Economic Development Commission has just published the Food and Beverage Industry Report. In it, you’ll find the most up-to-date stats on what’s happening in the industry here, including a breakdown of the workforce and operations by industry subcategories; the education, training and professional development resources; and you’ll learn how Arkansas is leading the way in food traceability using blockchain technology.
You’ll also see a list of some of the companies that are finding success here, including a case study on Frito-Lay and its growing operation in Jonesboro. The report includes maps, infographics, and links to blog posts and other helpful resources.
