Greeley JBS Workers Return to Work, Negotiations Resume

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After a three-week strike by almost 4,000 employees at the JBS beef processing plant in Greeley, Colorado, workers have returned to their jobs without a new contract. The union and JBS have agreed to resume negotiations this week, with the union warning that a strike could resume if the talks fail to address worker demands for higher wages and improved safety.

Why it matters

The Greeley JBS plant is a major employer in the region, and the labor dispute highlights ongoing tensions between meat processing companies and their workers over wages, benefits, and workplace conditions. The outcome of these negotiations could set the tone for future contract talks in the industry.

The details

Union President Kim Cordova called the return to the negotiating table a win, noting that no talks were scheduled while the strike was ongoing. The union is pressing for wages that keep up with inflation and a halt to company charges for replacing protective equipment. JBS said it is offering the same package as in previous sessions and maintains that its final offer is unchanged. Some workers expressed confusion and disappointment at returning to work without a ratified contract, saying the company's offer doesn't cover rising costs of living and ongoing safety concerns in the plant.

• The three-week strike by JBS workers in Greeley, Colorado ended on April 7, 2026.
• Negotiations between the union and JBS are scheduled to resume on April 9 and 10, 2026.

What they’re saying

What’s next

The outcome of the resumed contract negotiations between the union and JBS will determine whether the workers' strike resumes or if a new agreement can be reached.