Thomas Foods International USA’s plant in Swedesboro, New Jersey
Jacksonville plant acquisition strengthens the Northside economy through industrial investment and projected job creation. Thomas Foods International USA acquired the former Tyson Foods facility at 5441 W. Fifth St., Northwest Jacksonville on September 17, 2025 for $3.55 million. The plant had been closed earlier in 2024, after Tyson announced the shutdown in late 2023. The seller, Bruss Co., had purchased the site in 2012 for about $1.5 million.
Company background & U.S. presence
Thomas Foods International, based in Australia, operates across Asia, Europe, and America. In the U.S., the company runs a processing and distribution hub in Swedesboro, New Jersey, producing more than 100 million pounds annually of retail-ready meat. The Jacksonville plant now becomes its second U.S. processing location.
Expansion, facility, and output estimates
City incentive documents identify the project under the codename “Project Pan,” highlighting an estimated capital investment of up to $28 million (only an estimate) to revitalize the facility. In addition, the building, constructed in 1974, occupies about 4.29 acres. Furthermore, plans call for the creation of up to 100 new jobs over three years. Projections show the facility could reach a production target of around 1 million pounds of finished product weekly, equal to about 450 tonnes.
Infrastructure & site advantages
The plant’s location provides proximity to the Jacksonville port, major highways, and rail routes. As a result, this connectivity strengthens distribution capabilities and supports import and export operations. Moreover, the project aligns with city incentive programs tied to job creation benchmarks and capital investment.
Economic & market implications
This Jacksonville plant acquisition strengthens Northside’s industrial base. The capital investment and workforce expansion are expected to drive activity in surrounding neighborhoods. Increased employment typically brings greater demand for housing, retail, and community services. The acquisition reinforces Jacksonville’s role as a hub for food processing and distribution. For Fluid Realty, the Jacksonville plant acquisition illustrates how large-scale industrial projects influence local real estate. As new jobs are created and capital flows into Northwest Jacksonville, surrounding neighborhoods may see more interest from homebuyers, renters, and investors. Our team continues to track how these developments shape housing demand and relocation opportunities in the Jacksonville market.