"We deeply regret having to close this facility," said Joseph B. Sebring, president of John Morrell, a subsidiary of Smithfield Foods. "We recognize that layoffs and plant closings are difficult for everyone concerned. But at the same time, we believe this is a necessary business decision. The Sioux City plant is one of the oldest, most outdated and least efficient plants in the Smithfield system," he continued.
The Sioux City plant closure will affect approximately 1,450 hourly and salaried employees. The company will confer with union officials regarding this transition.