In a significant move for the food manufacturing sector, meat giant JBS plans to invest $135 million in a new sausage plant in Iowa through its US subsidiary, creating approximately 500 jobs upon completion.
The company anticipates that construction will commence at the Perry site later this year, with completion expected by late 2026.
According to JBS’s statement issued today (29 May), the facility aims to produce around 130 million pounds of sausage annually, processing approximately 500,000 sows in the process.
Initially, the plant will employ 250 workers in one shift, with plans to expand staffing and introduce a second shift in the future.
“This output can feed more than four million people nationwide annually, helping meet growing consumer demand for high-quality protein,” JBS stated.
Wesley Batista Filho, CEO of the US business unit, remarked: “This investment underscores our commitment to rural America and our confidence in the strength of the US market. We aim to be a long-term partner for Perry, and if approved by the community, the facility will help foster job creation and economic stability in the region.”
Aaron Juergens, president of the Iowa Pork Producers Association, expressed his enthusiasm, saying: “We’re excited to see continued investment in Iowa’s pork industry with the proposed opening of this new processing facility. It strengthens our state’s leadership in pork production, creates new opportunities for pork producers, and supports the rural communities that are the backbone of Iowa agriculture.”
JBS USA, headquartered in Greeley, Colorado, produces a wide range of meat and poultry products and is the majority shareholder of poultry producer Pilgrim’s Pride.
Earlier this year, JBS unveiled a $200 million investment plan to boost beef production at its facilities in Texas and Colorado.
In contrast, rival meat processor Tyson Foods announced in March of last year that it would close its pork facility in Perry, impacting over 1,200 employees.
