On May 20, 2026, Cargill initiated a lockout at its Fort Morgan, Colo., beef facility after months of bargaining with Teamsters Local 455 and a union employee vote of 1,388-252 against the company's latest contract offer. The members' contract expired Feb. 22, according to Teamsters Local 455.

Teamsters Local 455 represents about 1,700 workers at the plant. About 85% of the union members voted against the contract offer before the lockout started. 

Cargill told Drovers that its $33.4 million contract offer for five years is fair and competitive, and that the lockout was not the outcome the company wanted. "The lockout was initiated because continued uncertainty around a potential work stoppage creates challenges for operating safely, responsibly and reliably. We respect employees’ right to vote and remain committed to reaching a ratified agreement with the union," the company told Drovers. Cargill also told Drovers that the halt in processing at the Fort Morgan plant will not impact weekly harvest numbers, as the company is shifting production to other plants.

Cargill suspended cattle slaughtering at the Fort Morgan facility in April amid labor negotiations with Teamsters Local 455 and concerns over a potential work stoppage.

In a Facebook post, Teamsters Local 455 said the lockout impacts nearly 20% of Fort Morgan's population.

"Cargill and companies like these come into these small towns and act like they're helping us, but really they are holding these towns back," said Dean Modecker, Teamsters Local 455 secretary-treasurer.

"Our members are and have been prepared to sit at the table and reach a deal that's in the best interest of their families, Cargill customers, and the Fort Morgan community," Modecker said. "But the company has said 'No' because they think these workers have no other choice. Now that the company has locked us out, Cargill has made it clear they don't want a deal."