KODAK, Tenn. – On April 14, Swaggerty’s Farm began operations at its new 50,000-square-foot production expansion in Kodak. Officials said the expansion marks a significant milestone by increasing production capacity, while enhancing efficiency and maintaining the high-quality standards customers have come to expect.

The new facility features modern, energy-efficient systems and innovative building materials, supporting Swaggerty’s Farm’s ongoing commitment to sustainability and continuous improvement, officials added.

The farm was started by Lonas Swaggerty around the start of the Great Depression to produce premium sausage products.

“When my father started this company in 1930, his goal was simple: to save a family farm and feed his family,” said Kyle Swaggerty, son of Lonas Swaggerty and second-generation company chair of Swaggerty’s Sausage Co., Inc., at Swaggerty’s Farm. “He never could have imagined the success and growth we have had.”

Last October, Swaggerty’s Farm, which now has over 18,000 retailers, wholesale distributors, and food service establishments nationwide, celebrated 95 years, and continues to be one of the top-selling, preservative-free sausage brands in the country, with the No. 1 selling boxed sausage patty on the market, according to company officials.

Doug Swaggerty, Kyle’s son and third-generation company president, owner and CEO, said, “I grew up watching the dedication and work ethic of my father, and following in his footsteps with the commitment to quality and our standards instilled in every decision we make.

“And although we’ve expanded and modernized, our traditions and values haven’t changed in 95 years,” he added. “I am very proud of the product we make, and consider it an honor to be a part of family meals and memories that others share every day.”

Doug said local general contract partner, Southern Constructors Inc., worked closely with Swaggerty’s Farm to design and complete the project: “Our growth is fueled by a simple philosophy: never forget where you started.

“This expansion allows us to scale our operations, while protecting the integrity of our process,” he added. “We’re investing in our future so we can continue delivering the high standards our customers and community deserve.”

Lizzy McHenry, Swaggerty’s Farm Sausage Co., Inc., marketing content coordinator, told Farm World the expansion is designed to support continued growth, while preserving the “quality, tradition and flavor Swaggerty’s Farm has been known for generations.”

She added, “The additional space allows for more efficient daily operations and incorporates modern, energy-efficient building materials that support the company’s long-term commitment to continuous improvement.”

She said as a company that has remained rooted on the same land in East Tennessee for generations, Swaggerty’s Farm continues to value its connection to both the local community, and the agricultural industry.

“As the company grows, that commitment extends beyond the region through ongoing support of agricultural education, scholarships, industry partnerships, and initiatives that help invest in the future of the farming and food production communities,” she said.