Koch Foods Inc. has announced plans to invest $40.5 to build a feed mill in Randolph County. The mill will produce prepared feeds and ingredients to support a processing plant in Pine Mountain, Georgia. Koch Foods plans to hire 27 full-time employees and 19 truck drivers with a total annual payroll of $2 million.

“Koch Foods’ decision to locate their world-class facility here is great news for Randolph County,” said Marilyn Lott, executive director of the Randolph County Economic Development Authority (RCEDA). Koch is one of the nation’s largest poultry producers.

According to Alabama News Center, the RCEDA predicts that the mill will lead to the development of up to 190 new houses contracted by local farmers. Famers generally build houses leading from the feed mill to the processing plant. These developments could bring an estimated $95 million.

“With the right facilities such as this feed mill in place, Koch Foods will not only remain competitive but look to expand in this area,” said Mark Kaminsky, the company’s chief operating officer. “We appreciate all the support this project has received.”

Kaminsky said that the project could not have been successful without the support of officials in Roanoke and Randolph County. “This major investment by Koch Foods will create 46 well-paying jobs in rural Alabama and generate new opportunities in communities across Randolph County,” said Greg Canfield, secretary of the Alabama Department of Commerce. “The project expands the company’s already significant footprint in the state and will support the growth of East Alabama’s poultry industry with many new growing houses.”

Roanoke Mayor Mike Fisher said his city of around 6,000 residents will benefit significantly from the project. “This company will bring new jobs and economic growth,” he said. “We are fortunate to have this business and we look forward to a long working relationship with them.”