By Jamie Martin
Smithfield Foods has announced plans to seek approval for new packaged meats and fresh pork processing facility in Sioux Falls, South Dakota. The company estimates the total investment could reach $1.3 billion over the next three years, depending on regulatory and board approvals.
“This highly automated facility will represent a major investment in Sioux Falls, the state of South Dakota and the future of American agriculture,” said Shane Smith, president and CEO of Smithfield Foods. “Smithfield’s investment supports our long-term strategy of continuing to grow and optimize our value-added packaged meats and fresh pork operations to deliver innovation, convenience and value to our customers.”
The facility is planned for Foundation Park, one of the largest industrial parks in the state. It will replace the company’s existing plant, which has served the region for more than a century. Smithfield employs around 3,200 people locally and provides about $200 million in annual wages, while also supporting many additional jobs throughout the agricultural supply chain.
“Food security equals national security, so food production and processing will continue to play a vital role in South Dakota’s economy," said Governor Larry Rhoden.
"Smithfield’s proposed investment in South Dakota opens up greater opportunity for our state to expand livestock production, and the company’s decision to relocate from downtown Sioux Falls opens up the opportunity to revitalize the downtown riverfront. This is a win-win-win-win for producers, the company, the city, and the state of South Dakota,” said Rhoden.
The proposed plant will combine fresh pork and value-added packaged meats production in a single modern complex. The design includes improved efficiency, advanced automation, and streamlined processing systems. Company leadership stated that the investment supports long-term growth and innovation in food production.
The new location near major interstate highways is expected to improve transportation and logistics. The facility will also support independent hog farmers, as well as corn and soybean producers who supply feed for livestock. Leaders believe the investment will help expand livestock production and strengthen the regional farm economy.
“Smithfield’s investment in a new facility in Sioux Falls will have a transformational impact on our community and our agriculture economy,” said Mundt, president and CEO of the Sioux Falls Development Foundation.
“The new facility will bring skilled jobs for Smithfield’s workforce, provide renewed value-added agriculture opportunities for regional producers and create an incredible redevelopment opportunity in Downtown Sioux Falls. We’re grateful for Smithfield’s commitment to Sioux Falls and are looking forward to welcoming them to their new home in Foundation Park,” said Bob Mundt.
If all approvals are secured, site preparation could begin in spring 2026. Groundbreaking is expected in early 2027, with operations targeted to begin by the end of 2028.
Officials say the relocation will create opportunities for future redevelopment of the current downtown site while reinforcing South Dakota’s role in national food production. The planned investment highlights the importance of food processing, agricultural growth, and job creation in supporting both local communities and long-term food security.
Photo Credit: istock-apichsn
Categories: National