Smithfield Foods to Build New Facility in Sioux Falls

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Smithfield Foods, a leading U.S. food company, has announced plans to build a new state-of-the-art packaged meats and fresh pork processing facility in Sioux Falls, South Dakota. The $1.3 billion investment will replace Smithfield's existing plant, which has been a central part of the regional economy for over a century. The new facility will feature advanced automation and streamlined design to boost efficiency in Smithfield's operations.

Why it matters

Smithfield's decision to invest in a new facility in Sioux Falls highlights the company's commitment to the region and the importance of the meat processing industry to the local economy. The new plant will help Smithfield remain competitive and meet evolving consumer demands while supporting thousands of direct and indirect jobs.

The details

The proposed facility will be built in Foundation Park, a 1,000+-acre industrial park in northwest Sioux Falls. It will replace Smithfield's existing plant, which currently employs 3,200 people and provides $200 million in annual wages. The new, combined fresh pork and packaged meats facility will feature highly efficient processes, advanced automation, and a streamlined design to boost productivity.

• Smithfield initiated the approval process in February 2026.
• Site work is expected to begin in spring 2026.
• Initial groundbreaking is anticipated in the first half of 2027.
• Production at the new facility is expected to begin by the end of 2028.

What’s next

Smithfield's proposed investment is contingent on securing required permits and other regulatory approvals, as well as approval of the final facility design by the company's board of directors.