Smithfield Foods Closing Plant in California

Smithfield Foods said it will stop all harvest and processing operations in Vernon, CA, in early 2023 due to the rising cost of doing business in the state. At the same time, the company will align its hog production system by reducing its sow herd in the western region. The company will shrink the size of its sow herd in Utah and is looking at options to exit its farms in Arizona and California. Smithfield harvests only company-owned hogs in Vernon.

“We are grateful to our team members in the Western region for their dedication and invaluable contributions to our mission,” said Smithfield Chief Operating Officer Brady Stewart. “We are committed to providing financial and other transition assistance to employees impacted by this difficult decision.”

The transition options for employees include relocation options to other company facilities and farms and retention incentives to ensure the business stays in operation until next year.

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