Smithfield Foods Relocating to Foundation Park

Meat processing giant plans $1.3B investment in new state-of-the-art facility

Feb. 19, 2026 at 3:31am

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Smithfield Foods, the major meat processing company previously known as John Morrell, is moving its Sioux Falls plant from Falls Park to Foundation Park. The company plans to spend over $1.3 billion on a new state-of-the-art fresh pork and packaged meats facility over the next three years, pending permit approvals and board approval.

Why it matters

Smithfield has long been a major employer and economic driver in the Sioux Falls area, with deep community ties. The relocation represents a significant investment in the region's manufacturing and food processing sectors, though the move may also raise concerns about the future of the current Falls Park site.

The details

Smithfield Foods is planning to build a new, cutting-edge processing plant in Foundation Park, a designated industrial area on the outskirts of Sioux Falls. The company expects to spend over $1.3 billion on the new facility, which will replace its existing plant located in the more central Falls Park area. The new plant will focus on fresh pork and packaged meats production.

  • Smithfield announced the relocation plans on February 17, 2026.
  • The company expects the new Foundation Park facility to be operational within the next 3 years.

The players

Smithfield Foods

A major meat processing company previously known as John Morrell, with a longstanding presence in the Sioux Falls area.

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What they’re saying

“The new plant will be a state of the art, fresh pork and packaged meats facility.”

— Smithfield CEO and President

What’s next

Smithfield must receive permit approvals and board approval before beginning construction on the new $1.3 billion Foundation Park facility.

The takeaway

Smithfield's major investment in a new state-of-the-art plant underscores the company's continued commitment to the Sioux Falls region, though the relocation from Falls Park to the outskirts of the city may raise questions about the future use of the current plant site.