Wayne-Sanderson Farms, one of the largest vertically integrated poultry producers in the U.S., has announced the acquisition of Harrison Poultry, solidifying its presence in Georgia and expanding operational capacity across live production, hatcheries, feed mills, processing, and transportation.
The acquisition includes all of Harrison Poultry’s assets associated with its Bethlehem and Crawfordville operations, with the company stating that integrated operations will begin immediately. According to the official release, minimal disruption to day-to-day business is expected.
“We are well matched,” said Kevin McDaniel, president and CEO of Wayne-Sanderson Farms. “Wayne-Sanderson Farms is known for quality people, quality farm partners and quality products, and so is Harrison Poultry.”
The move reflects Wayne-Sanderson’s broader strategic growth plan, aimed at building capacity while maintaining close ties to farming partners and rural economies. The acquisition followed a detailed operational and cultural assessment to ensure long-term alignment between the companies. Financial terms were not disclosed.
A Legacy Built in Rural Georgia
Founded in 1958 by R. Harold Harrison, Harrison Poultry has long been a staple in the Southeastern poultry landscape. Known for its commitment to vertically integrated production, the company has invested heavily in rural Georgia over decades, building a reputation for consistency, quality, and close relationships with contract growers.
“Our primary focus with this transaction from the start has been making sure this was right for our people, our farmers and our customers,” said Jim Skidmore, president and CEO of Harrison Poultry.
The acquisition reinforces Wayne-Sanderson Farms’ commitment to its Southeastern footprint and further cements Georgia’s role as a critical hub in U.S. poultry production.
About Wayne-Sanderson Farms
Formed through the merger of Wayne Farms and Sanderson Farms in 2022, Wayne-Sanderson Farms is the third-largest poultry producer in the United States, processing millions of birds weekly and supplying major foodservice, retail, and export markets. The company continues to pursue growth through strategic investment and operational efficiency, while emphasizing animal welfare, food safety, and environmental responsibility.
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