Smithfield Foods Plans $1.3 Billion Investment in Sioux Falls, South Dakota
Smithfield Foods, Inc. has launched an ambitious plan to revolutionize the packaged meats and fresh pork processing industry with a new state-of-the-art facility in Sioux Falls, South Dakota. This proposed development promises to energize the local economy by supporting the state’s robust agricultural sector and reinforcing Sioux Falls as a significant hub for food production.
Larry Rhoden
Located at Foundation Park, a sprawling 1,000-acre heavy industrial park in northwest Sioux Falls, the facility represents a forward-thinking investment in South Dakota’s economic future. By replacing Smithfield’s existing plant, which has anchored the regional economy for over a century, this new endeavor signifies a commitment to modernizing agriculture-related industries within the state.
As the largest employer in Sioux Falls, Smithfield currently provides more than 3,200 jobs, equating to $200 million in wages annually. This new venture is expected to enhance this economic footprint, supporting innumerable indirect jobs across agriculture and allied sectors, thus weaving a development web that extends far beyond the city limits.
Smithfield Foods
The partnership between Smithfield Foods and local leadership—including South Dakota Governor Larry Rhoden and Sioux Falls Mayor Paul TenHaken—reflects a mutual vision to establish Sioux Falls as a leader in agribusiness innovation. Foundation Park offers an unprecedented opportunity to integrate advanced automation technology and efficient process flow within the company’s operations.
“This highly automated facility will represent a major investment in Sioux Falls, the state of South Dakota, and the future of American agriculture,” says Shane Smith, president and CEO of Smithfield Foods. “Smithfield’s investment supports our long-term strategy of continuing to grow and optimize our value-added packaged meats and fresh pork operations to deliver innovation, convenience, and value to our customers.”
The proposed $1.3 billion investment, contingent on securing necessary permits and regulatory approvals, anticipates approval after rigorous assessments led by Smithfield’s board of directors. The facility promises to bolster the local supply chain by supporting independent hog farmers, corn and soybean producers, and other agricultural sectors quintessential to South Dakota’s industry landscape.
Construction commencement is planned for spring 2026, with production phases set to begin by the end of 2028. The project not only promises to enhance food industry advancements but also underscores the region’s strategic importance within the national agricultural matrix.
South Dakota’s unique geographical advantages, favorable business climate, and a rich agricultural tradition poise it perfectly for this transformation. As foundations lay for this new chapter in Sioux Falls’ economic narrative, the endeavor hopes to inspire a new era of prosperity marked by local innovation, national distribution, and international recognition.
With ongoing support from local and state authorities, South Dakota’s role in the national agricultural economy is set to grow exponentially. Interested stakeholders are eagerly watching as Sioux Falls positions itself as a critical node in food production and agribusiness.
For inquiries, please contact info@smithfieldfoods.com.