SPRINGDALE, ARK. – Tyson Foods Inc. announced on Feb. 20, the acquisition of Union City, Tenn.-based Williams Sausage Co., a processor of fresh and fully cooked sausage, bacon, sandwiches and other foods for the retail segment.

The company, founded in 1958 by Harold and Hazel Williams, employed approximately 500 workers, and in 2017 built a second facility in Obion County, Tenn., adding a distribution center, maintenance center, offices and a new sandwich production line. Tyson did not disclose the terms of the deal, which is subject to approval by regulators.

“The addition of Williams Sausage Co. aligns with our strategic intent of expanding our capacity to serve our customers,” said Stewart Glendinning, group president of Tyson’s Prepared Foods business unit. “We also look forward to welcoming Williams’ dedicated team members to the Tyson Foods family.”

Roger Williams, president and chief executive officer expressed his appreciation for the employees, customers and suppliers of his family-owned company for the past 65 years and said Tyson will be able to facilitate its next stage of growth.

“There are not many companies to which we could entrust what we have built, and we are very pleased that in Tyson Foods we have found that partner who understands the heritage and culture of our family business and will be able to take it to the next level,” Williams said. “We believe this to be a very positive move for our family and our team members that will ensure the future of all stakeholders.”