Smithfield Foods Proposes $1.3 Billion Processing Facility in Sioux Falls

Smithfield Foods has announced plans to embark on the approval process to establish a state-of-the-art packaged meats and fresh pork processing facility in Sioux Falls, South Dakota. This venture is expected to involve a preliminary investment of up to $1.3 billion over the next three years.

Location and Development Timeline

The proposed facility, pending necessary permits and regulatory approvals, will be situated in Foundation Park, a sprawling 1,000-acre heavy industrial park in northwest Sioux Falls. This new site is designed to replace Smithfield’s current facility, which has been a fixture in downtown Sioux Falls for over a century.

Site preparations are anticipated to commence in spring 2026, with an initial groundbreaking projected for the first half of 2027. Full production is expected to begin by the end of 2028, following the completion of all required regulatory processes.

Innovative Features of the New Facility

The proposed facility will be one of the most modern of its kind in the United States, featuring advanced automation technology and an efficient process flow that enhances productivity. This investment aims to deliver substantial efficiency improvements for Smithfield’s fresh pork and packaged meats operations.

Economic Contribution and Job Creation

Currently, Smithfield employs approximately 3,200 individuals in Sioux Falls and contributes around $200 million annually in wages. The new facility is expected to further support local agriculture by benefiting independent hog farmers, as well as corn and soybean producers, thereby enhancing the regional pork supply chain.

According to Shane Smith, President and CEO of Smithfield Foods, “This highly automated facility will represent a major investment in Sioux Falls, the state of South Dakota, and the future of American agriculture.”

He further emphasized that this investment aligns with Smithfield’s long-term strategy to optimize its value-added packaged meats and fresh pork operations.

Collaboration with State and Local Leadership

Smithfield’s initiative has been carefully developed in partnership with local leaders, including South Dakota Governor Larry Rhoden and Sioux Falls Mayor Paul TenHaken. Governor Rhoden commented, “Food security equals national security, so food production and processing will continue to play a vital role in South Dakota’s economy.”

The governor also noted that the new facility will create more opportunities for livestock production in the state and will allow for revitalization of the downtown riverfront, creating a win-win situation for all stakeholders.

Mayor TenHaken highlighted the historic significance of the announcement, stating, “This new, state-of-the-art facility reaffirms Smithfield’s long-term commitment to Sioux Falls and the region.” He also outlined the potential for redeveloping the existing downtown site when the time is appropriate.

Community and Economic Transformation

The new facility will be strategically located at the intersection of Interstates 29 and 90, within South Dakota’s largest industrial park. Bob Mundt, President and CEO of the Sioux Falls Development Foundation, expressed enthusiasm for the transformative impact Smithfield’s investment will have on the community and agricultural economy.

“The new facility will bring skilled jobs for Smithfield’s workforce, revive value-added agriculture opportunities for regional producers, and spark redevelopment in Downtown Sioux Falls. We look forward to welcoming Smithfield to their new home in Foundation Park,” he stated.

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