(NewsNation) — Walmart has opened its first case-ready beef facility in Olathe, Kansas, as part of its latest efforts to build transparency and supply chain resilience around Angus beef production.

Owned and operated by the retailer, the 300,000-plus square-foot facility will source cattle directly from Sustainable Beef LLC and will distribute to stores across the Midwest. Walmart made an equity investment in the Nebraska-based Sustainable Beef LLC in 2022.

According to Walmart’s website, the facility will create more than 600 jobs for Olathe and the surrounding Kansas community. Governor Laura Kelly and Olathe Mayor John Beacon celebrated the facility’s grand opening on June 27 for how it will help contribute to the state’s economy.

“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,” Beacon said.

Beef prices have been on the rise, much to the dismay of shoppers. As of May, beef and veal prices were 8.6% higher than May 2024, according to the USDA.

NerdWallet reports that the price spikes can be tied to a handful of factors such as drought, high grain prices and rising interest rates. As a result, some cattle ranchers are now opting for smaller herd sizes, further limiting beef availability.