JBS USA closes Pennsylvania beef plant and Tennessee facility
Souderton plant employed about 1,700 workers near Philadelphia
15 June 2026
1 minute read
By: In a company press release, JBS USA announced the planned closure of a beef production facility in Souderton, Pa., a suburb of Philadelphia, and a value-added facility in Memphis, Tenn.
"These decisions are never easy because they directly affect our team members and the communities where we operate," said Wesley Batista Filho, CEO of JBS USA. "We are deeply grateful to the team members at these facilities for their efforts and contributions over many years. Our focus right now is on supporting them with transparency, respect, and access to new opportunities wherever possible."
Transition plans include opportunities for team members to apply for open roles at other company facilities across the US, on-site support and resources, and continued engagement with local stakeholders and workforce partners.
The company said the actions are part of a broader strategy focused on growth, modernization and long-term competitiveness in the US. Over the past year, JBS USA said it has made significant investments in new facilities and improvements across the US, including major expansions in Texas, Georgia and Iowa.
Earlier this year, JBS USA combined its beef and case-ready businesses into a more integrated platform designed to improve efficiency, enhance productivity and expand value-added capabilities across its network.
Production from the affected facilities will be absorbed into other operations across the company's network, ensuring continuity of supply and service for customers.
"JBS USA is investing heavily in the United States and in the future of food production," Batista Filho said. "At the same time, we must ensure our operations are efficient, modern, and positioned to compete. By investing where we are growing and making difficult adjustments where needed, we are building a stronger and more resilient company."
"Demand for high-quality protein continues to grow, and we are committed to meeting that demand as a reliable partner to our customers, producers, and communities," Batista Filho said. "These steps ensure we are better positioned to invest in the future, strengthen our operations, and continue delivering the products people depend on every day."
