TOPEKA – Governor Laura Kelly joined state and local leaders as well as Walmart leadership Friday to celebrate the grand opening of Walmart’s first-ever fully owned and operated case-ready beef facility in Olathe, Kansas. The new facility brings 667 new jobs to surrounding area, higher quality beef sold in Walmart stores across the Midwest, and increased transparency and efficiency in the supply chain for Angus beef.
“Kansas has long been at the forefront of the agriculture industry, and Walmart’s investment in Olathe is further driving our success,” Governor Laura Kelly said. “Through food production and supply chain innovations, we are proud to partner with Walmart to transform how we feed communities across our state and the region.”
The 300,000+ square-foot, state-of-the-art facility is the product of a $257 million new capital investment. The facility will process fresh beef into case-read Angus cuts, packaged and ready for retail, and then distribute the cuts to 600 stores across 14 states.
“Walmart’s decision to open its new case-ready facility in Olathe isn’t just a business investment — it’s a vote of confidence in our community and our workforce,” said Olathe Mayor John Bacon. “With over 600 new jobs being created, this facility will fuel local economic growth and reinforce Olathe’s position as a regional agricultural leader. We’re proud to work with Walmart and build more economic opportunity for our residents.”
During today’s grand opening celebration, Walmart also awarded grants to several local organizations, further demonstrating their commitment to being a strong partner to Olathe and the surrounding area.
The organizations and grant awards are below:
- Kansas Special Olympics – $35,000
Special Olympics Kansas provides year-round sports training and athletic competition for children and adults with intellectual disabilities, promoting physical fitness, courage, and friendship. - Boys & Girls Club of Greater Kansas City – $20,000
The Boys & Girls Club inspires kids to live out their potential by providing safe, fun, and enriching after-school and summer programs focused on academics, leadership, and healthy lifestyles. - Friends In Service of Heroes – $30,000
Friends In Service of Heroes is dedicated to supporting veterans and their families by providing life-changing resources, mobility assistance, and emotional support to those who have served our country. - Mayor Bacon’s Book Club – $5,000
Mayor Bacon’s Book Club fosters a love of reading among Olathe’s young students by providing free books and encouraging literacy through engaging events and community partnerships.
