Source:  Tom Johnston, MEATINGPLACE.COM, 3/2/10

Tyson Chief Financial Officer Dennis Leatherby told investors Monday at the J.P.Morgan Global High Yield & Leveraged Finance Conference that the company has made significant progress in its day-to-day operations and is committed to improving its competitive position.

As part of that effort, Leatherby said Tyson is focusing on integrating recent acquisitions in China and Brazil, further reducing debt and reinvesting in its business. The company also will explore opportunities for its Renewable Products Group, which includes pet products, renewable fuels, biotech and nutraceuticals, he said.

Tyson recently re-opened an idle plant and reconfigured it to produce high-end pet treats. Dynamic Fuels, Tyson's joint venture with Syntroleum Corp., is expected to bring its renewable diesel plant online this summer, he said.

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