Perdue Farms is investing $3.7 million to increase production at hatcheries in Kenly and Salisbury.
The expansion doesn't mean many new jobs — only about five new positions are planned at each facility — but can be taken as a sign of the company's interest in North Carolina.
But North Carolina's gain will by Maryland's loss. The company will close its hatcheries in Showell and Bishopville, Md., eliminating 36 jobs. Equipment from those facilities will move to Salisbury. The hatchery in Kenly, which is about 50 miles from Raleigh in Johnston County, will get new equipment and ventilation systems.
The changes will not go into effect until early next year, according to a statement from the company.
Privately-held Perdue ranks third in sales in the poultry industry. It employs about 21,000 people and has contracts with 2,253 independent farm families.
Mary Cornatzer has worked at The News & Observer for more than 25 years, covering the local music industry, state movie industry and travel. She has been the paper's Business editor since 2000. Contact Mary at 919-829-4755 or