Pilgrim’s Pride Moves to Close Minnesota Processing Plant

Poultry firm Pilgrim’s Pride Corporation plans to shutter its processing plant in Luverne, MN this December as part of the Brazilian-owned company’s efforts to make its production operations more efficient and further synergies within its footprint.

“The Pilgrim’s team explored several options before arriving at the difficult decision to close the Luverne facility,” the head of Pilgrim’s USA, Jayson Penn, said in a company press release announcing the decision Tuesday. “We recognize the impact that this has on our Luverne team, their families, and the local community, and we will make every effort to assist in future job placement, including relocation opportunities at other company locations for all impacted employees.

Some 200 workers are currently employed at the Luverne plant. Pilgrim’s said the plant will cease operations on Dec. 29, 2017.

Pilgrim’s Pride, a subsidiary of Brazilian global protein firm JBS SA, purchased the plant in 1998 from beef processor IBP and converted the facility to produce frozen and convenience chicken products.

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