In a monumental step for South Dakota’s economy and agricultural sector, Smithfield Foods has announced plans to build a cutting-edge pork processing plant in Sioux Falls. This $1.3 billion investment, heralded as the largest in the state’s history, promises to enhance the state’s reputation as a pivotal player in the agricultural industry.
Shane Smith
Shane Smith, President and CEO of Smithfield Foods, stated, “Featuring advanced automation technology and IT systems, it will be the largest combined packaged meats and fresh pork processing facility in Smithfield’s network with more than 1.1 million square feet of production space, and will deliver efficiency gains to Smithfield’s fresh pork and packaged meats operations.”
The plant’s strategic location north of Sioux Falls, near Interstate 29 and Interstate 90, is expected to streamline logistics and transportation, making it a cornerstone in Smithfield’s distribution and production strategy. The new facility will replace the existing plant, which currently processes approximately 20,000 hogs per day, marking a significant boost in capacity for South Dakota’s pork producers.
Larry Rhoden
South Dakota’s Governor, Larry Rhoden, expressed his enthusiasm, stating, “Ag is king in South Dakota. So when agriculture succeeds, our whole economy in South Dakota succeeds.” The project is poised to deliver considerable benefits not only to local pork producers but to the region’s entire agricultural economy by significantly boosting production capabilities.
In a state where agriculture serves as the backbone of the economy, this development is set to have far-reaching positive impacts. The groundbreaking for the new plant is scheduled for the first half of 2027, with operations expected to commence by the end of 2028.
Smithfield Foods’ decision to build such a state-of-the-art facility reflects the growing importance of South Dakota in the national agricultural landscape. The use of advanced automation technology and state-of-the-art IT systems will underscore South Dakota’s position as a leader in integrating technology with agriculture, offering a model for the rest of the country to emulate.
This new facility underscores a commitment to sustainability and modernity, features that are becoming increasingly critical in the competitive world of agriculture. The ambitious project will not only provide jobs and bolster the local economy but will also place South Dakota at the forefront of technological advancements in pork processing. Such developments are a testament to the state’s role as a hub of innovation, which is incredibly exciting for both the local community and stakeholders nationwide.
The construction of the new plant, while serving as a milestone for Smithfield Foods, also represents a significant step forward for Sioux Falls, showcasing the area’s potential for attracting large-scale investments and pushing the boundaries of agricultural excellence.
South Dakota continues to show its capability to attract significant business investments, further cementing its reputation as a state where agriculture and business thrive in harmony. This bold step by Smithfield Foods is more than just an investment in infrastructure; it is an investment in the future of South Dakota’s agricultural prosperity.
For members of the local community and South Dakota’s agricultural sector, the Smithfield plant symbolizes a future rich in opportunity and growth. By prioritizing technological integration and sustainability, this innovative project sets a remarkable precedence for future developments within the state and beyond.