Project Chintan

Tyson Foods Closes Illinois Beef Plant, Affecting 2,500 Workers

Tyson Foods has closed its beef processing plant in Joslin, Illinois, impacting approximately 2,500 union workers. The company also announced plans to close a facility in Utah and sell another in Washington.

· 1 min read
Updated

Key takeaways

  • Tyson Foods has closed its beef processing plant in Joslin, Illinois.
  • The closure affects approximately 2,500 union workers.
  • Tyson also plans to close a facility in Eagle Mountain, Utah, and sell its Pasco, Washington plant.
  • The company cited projected decreases in domestic beef production and anticipated significant operating losses.

Tyson Foods has announced the closure of its beef processing facility located in Joslin, Illinois. Employees were informed on Thursday that their roles would conclude either that day or Friday. Some workers might be retained for specific operations until August 14, with compensation extending through October 12, 2026, and will receive separate notification.

The closure resulted in the loss of approximately 2,500 union jobs, according to Illinois officials. A worker with 11 years at the plant expressed shock at the sudden announcement, attributing the decision to a new CEO's evaluation of the facility.

In addition to the Joslin plant, Tyson is closing its Eagle Mountain, Utah, facility and intends to sell its Pasco, Washington, site. The company's third-quarter report indicated a projected 3% decrease in domestic beef production for the fiscal year and anticipates an operating loss between $500 million and $650 million. The beef segment alone reported a $138 million operating loss in the third quarter.

Sources reviewed

Project Chintan independently synthesized and analyzed information cross-checked across the sources listed above.

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