Fair Grove, Missouri – USDA MPPTA Client Story
Surrounded by lakes with abundant fishing and deer hunting, Fair Grove, right outside of bustling Springfield Missouri, is where Darren and Lori Fullerton operate their current meat processing facility which has been a family business since 1982. Just down the road, near Buffalo, Missouri they're expanding their small-town business; they're constructing a new facility, all geared to better serve ranchers in an area where there are more cattle than people, the highest population of cattle in Missouri.
From a humble 2,500-square-foot enterprise to a new 10,000 sq. ft. facility, Turner Meat Processing is set to become one of Missouri's largest small-scale producers.
Getting No Cost Help from MPPTA’s Chris Roper
Helping Fullerton navigate the difficult process of building a meat processing plant, Chris Roper, working with Meat and Poultry Processing Technical Assistance (MPPTA) through Flower Hill Institute, lent his expertise. Darren had reached out during his expansion research, and Chris became an instrumental force. With extensive knowledge and hands-on advice, Chris has helped to ensure that Fullerton's dream facility took shape.
"Yeah, he's been very helpful with telling us certain equipment that, in his experience, has been useful, and a lot of things that work well in a processing plant." - Darren Fullerton
Taking strategic steps into the grant world, they successfully secured state grants which helped them get the loans to build. Working continually with Chris, he has helped them navigate the complexities of the grant process.
“We get their MPPTA/FlowerHill newsletters and they help us stay up to date with what's going on and what grants are available, it's very helpful." - Darren Fullerton
Their January 2024 launch is already creating waves, thanks to their deep roots in the community. With an extensive network already in place, they've begun scheduling for the new business, integrating current customers and employees, guaranteeing a solid start.
With an eye to the future, they will be working toward becoming a USDA Cooperative Interstate Shipment certified plant, allowing them to ship meat products nationwide.
Making Lasting Impact
Designed for future growth, their new plant is a testament to dreams and hard work. With monthly check-ins from Chris, expert advice, and invaluable support, the Fullertons are set to make a lasting impact.
"Absolutely. We'll definitely be working with Chris for a long time. Chris lives in Missouri too, you know, and that's nice as well." - Darren Fullerton
For those looking to venture into the meat processing world, Darren's advice is clear: thorough research, understanding the need, and meticulous planning are the keys to success. It's a challenging journey, but one that brings joy and fulfillment.
Contact MPPTA
Please contact us with any questions.
About the USDA MPPTA programs - Contact Us
For the MPPTA social media engagement team - DM us on Facebook
Please note: The Meat and Poultry Processing Technical Assistance (MPPTA) Program is funded through a cooperative agreement with the USDA Agricultural Marketing Service. The MPPTA Project Coordinators do not offer or provide direct contractor services or financial capital, grant writing, or project management services, nor does the voluntary use of MPPTA guarantee the success of a grant application or the grant-funded project