New food service company in Opelika brings 200 + jobs, continues economic growth

OPELIKA, AL (WTVM) -  An East Alabama city says they are focusing on economic development and growth by recruiting jobs both nationally and internationally.

Today, a company who provides for one of the biggest fast-food chains worldwide is making a home in Opelika.

The ribbon was cut for a 165,000 square foot facility which will make hamburger patties and bulk ground meat products for corporations you might be familiar with, like McDonald's and Nestle.

Golden State Foods is providing hundreds of jobs for Opelika.

"We are excited to welcome everyone here today," said Wayne Morgan, corporate vice president of Golden State Foods. "We've got well over 200 employees at the plant."

The company is adding more than 200 jobs and will cook up about 170 million pounds of protein products a year.

"We are so grateful for Golden State Foods for making this investment in our community," said Opelika Mayor Gary Fuller. "Over the past years it's been a few thousand."

A few thousand jobs that is. Fuller's administration has been focusing for years on economic development and jobs. Just recently, Thompson Tractor Company opened a new facility in May along with existing corporations who are deciding to expand.

Opelika officials say the city is growing as a hot spot for large corporations to relocate and invest.

Golden State Foods representatives said it was a no-brainer for the company.

"This was the right place for us right off I-85  and a great labor market for us. It was just a great fit," said Morgan.

The mayor said his administration's efforts don't stop here. In the coming months, they might have more announcements about development and new jobs in the city.

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