Iowa Producers Get Their Plant

A beef harvest facility owned by producers is on its way to opening in Iowa.  More than $7 million has been raised to date in an equity drive that was launched Aug 5. That will allow Iowa producers to begin renovations and new construction at the Iowa Quality Beef Supply Cooperative harvest facility in Tama. The co-op’s members live in 95 of Iowa’s 99 counties and in 12 states.

At full production the plant will employ 600 workers. When operating at full capacity, about 1,200 head of cattle will be harvested daily.  The “ramping up” period is expected to last from eight to 12 weeks before full production is achieved.

American Foods Group is searching for a plant manager to oversee the construction phase and opening of the facility.

The Iowa Quality Beef Supply Network is looking for a director of marketing and brand development to represent the co-op members for the best opportunities regarding marketing branded products. 

            A financing proposal to secure permanent financing will be sent to a group of bankers.  The proposal includes a USDA long-term loan guarantee to the term lender.