House of Raeford Farms has announced the sale of its Mocksville, NC-based chicken processing plant to long-time customer Brakebush Brothers, Inc. of Westfield, WI.
The central portion of the manufacturing facility off Eaton Road was heavily damaged by a fire last December. Brakebush plans to restore the 72,000 square foot plant with state-of-the-art processing equipment. The updated facility will accommodate three production lines when fully utilized, which is projected for spring 2019.
According to Brakebush’s website, the company is retaining the employment of many of the management, administrative and hourly staff. When at full capacity, the plant will employ over 300 team members, and hiring will begin in early spring.
Bob Johnson, the CEO of House of Raeford, said, “ House of Raeford is pleased that Brakebush, one of the country’s premier further processing companies, will rebuild, upfit and continue to operate the Mocksville plant following the fire last December. The transaction will maintain quality employment and business opportunities in the community through the continued operation of this facility. We appreciate the patience of our employees through this transition.”
“In addition to the asset sale, the transaction provides for long-term reciprocal supply agreements between the parties. In addition to continued production and employment in the area, this transaction will result in an assured supply of raw material for Brakebush and its customers, and a continued supply of quality, fully cooked chicken products for House of Raeford customers.”
“We remain committed to our employees, and working together toward continued growth and success,” he added.
House of Raeford has paid the plant’s employees their normal wages since the fire on December 14, 2017, and despite the sale of the plant, will continue to do so through December 14, 2018, according to Bobbi Krieger, human resource manager.
Terry Bralley, president of the Davie County Economic Development Commission, has been impressed with the steps House of Raeford has taken to care for its employees and appreciates its presence in Davie County.
“Thank you, House of Raeford for being such a wonderful community partner and for taking care of your employees in such a meaningful way. Davie County has been fortunate to have you as part of our community.”
He also welcomed Brakebush Brothers, saying, “It’s difficult to see a great company go, but we look forward to a new and mutually rewarding relationship with Brakebush in the months and years to come.”
About Brakebush Brothers, Inc.
Family-owned and operated since 1925, Brakebush Brothers, Inc. provides a complete line of further processed chicken with over 200 products for the foodservice industry. The company is headquartered in Westfield, WI with additional operations in Irving, TX and Wells, MN. Visit www.brakebush.com for more information.
