Wayne Farms LLC will phase out its College Park further processing facility by the end of first quarter of 2009 as part of an ongoing focus to increase company operating efficiencies.

Wayne Farms LLC president and chief executive officer, Elton Maddox, said the decision was based on a variety of business factors including the ability to maximize efficiencies by moving production to other Wayne Farms' facilities.

"Our long term business strategy includes the most efficient allocation of assets and resources," said Mr Maddox.

"The College Park operation has been a part of our success, but changing market conditions required us to take a hard look at our business from the standpoint of customer needs and long term asset management."

During this process, there will be no supply interruption to any Wayne Farms LLC customers by the movement of production to other company facilities.

The 600 employees affected by the phased closure will be offered positions at other facilities where possible. Vendors and suppliers will be notified regarding any impacts that may occur as a result of the closure. The company is actively working with interested parties on a potential sale of the land and building.