Workers Strike at JBS Greeley Beef Plant Over Wages and Working Conditions

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

Thousands of union workers at the JBS beef processing plant in Greeley, Colorado have launched a strike over wages and working conditions. The United Food and Commercial Workers Local 7, which represents about 3,800 employees at the plant, accused JBS USA of pushing employees to process more cattle while reducing hours and maintaining unsafe working conditions.

Why it matters

This strike at one of the largest beef processing facilities in the U.S. highlights ongoing tensions between workers and major meat processing companies over wages, production speeds, and worker safety. The outcome of this labor dispute could have broader implications for the beef industry and the ability of workers to advocate for better conditions.

The details

Union officials said the plant has increased production line speeds to about 420 cattle per hour, up from 390. Workers say the faster pace adds strain to an already demanding job. At the same time, employees are seeking higher wages and reimbursement for protective equipment that can cost hundreds of dollars. The union has also filed complaints with the National Labor Relations Board alleging retaliation and unilateral changes to working conditions by the company during contract negotiations.

• The strike began early Monday, March 17, 2026.

What’s next

The judge will decide on Tuesday whether to allow the workers to continue the strike or order them back to work.