The Poultry Federation announced the opening of the Don & Randal Tyson Conference Center as part of its new building today (April 18). The announcement was made by Marvin Childers, president of The Poultry Federation, and John Tyson, chairman of Tyson Foods Inc.
Springdale-based Tyson Foods donated $1 million for the construction of the new building, a gift that stemmed from a commitment made by John’s late father, Don Tyson, in 2010.
“The poultry industry is a huge economic engine in Arkansas’ economy,” said Childers. “Poultry cash receipts of $3.6 billion, represents 47% of the total cash receipts from all agricultural commodities in Arkansas. Our industry accounts for 1 in 4 agricultural jobs in Arkansas and we are the only state to rank in the top 10 in chicken, turkey and egg production.”
The new building, located at 321 South Victory St. in Little Rock, will be the headquarters for The Poultry Federation, which serves the poultry and egg industry in Arkansas, Missouri and Oklahoma.
The Don & Randal Tyson Conference Center will be used for industry-related meetings and will also be available to legislators and other policy makers. The center is named in honor of the late Don Tyson, the former chairman of Tyson Foods, and the late Randal Tyson, Don’s half-brother who was a Tyson Foods vice president and served a term as president of the Poultry Federation.
“The Poultry Federation’s new building represents the future of the poultry business, which is so important to Arkansas and nearby states,” said John Tyson. “The Federation is a leader in addressing poultry industry and agricultural issues and we’re proud to be part of it.”
The announcement was made during a special luncheon at The Poultry Federation headquarters that was attended by representatives of Tyson Foods, Poultry Federation members and various state officials. Due to inclement weather in Northwest Arkansas, John Tyson was unable to attend in person and participated via videoconference.
The new Federation building is a LEED certified building located in the Capitol Zoning District. The total cost of the building, including furniture and equipment was approximately $2 million.