JBS USA announced plans to transform its Souderton, Pennsylvania, facility into a dedicated value-added operation, preserving approximately 400 jobs and supporting the company’s continued growth.
As previously announced, beef processing operations at the facility will conclude on Aug. 14, 2026. Following the transition, JBS will invest more than $30 million over the next decade to modernize and enhance the Souderton facility’s value-added and case-ready capabilities.
The company expects the conversion to further strengthen its ability to deliver high-quality, value-added protein products to customers throughout the Northeast while maintaining a significant employment presence in Montgomery County.
The decision follows extensive collaboration among JBS USA, Governor Josh Shapiro and his administration, the Pennsylvania Department of Agriculture, BusinessPA, UFCW leadership, Montgomery County officials, and local community stakeholders.
“This outcome allows us to preserve 400 good-paying jobs, strengthen our case-ready business, and continue serving customers in a key consumer market,” said Wesley Batista Filho, CEO of JBS USA.
The solution reflects what can be achieved when business, labor, and government work together toward a common goal.
“We would like to thank Governor Shapiro, the BusinessPA team, Secretary Redding and the Pennsylvania Department of Agriculture, UFCW leadership, Montgomery County officials, and local community leaders for their partnership and commitment throughout this process,” Batista Filho said.
The Souderton transition reflects JBS USA’s focus on aligning its operations with evolving customer needs while creating a sustainable path forward for the facility and its workforce.
Governor Josh Shapiro said: “Pennsylvania’s agriculture and manufacturing industries have powered our economy for generations, and we’re making sure they continue to drive our future. My Administration is working to protect good-paying jobs – and this facility will remain an important economic driver for Montgomery County. We were proud to work alongside JBS, UFCW, and community leaders to support Pennsylvania farmers, strengthen our food supply chain, and support JBS’s continued investment in the Commonwealth.”
UFCW President Wendell Young said: “We are grateful for the collaborative efforts that made this outcome possible and want to thank Gov. Shapiro, Congressman Fitzpatrick, the Montgomery County Commissioners, UFCW International, and everyone who worked diligently on behalf of our members throughout this process. We look forward to continuing to work with JBS as the facility transitions to case-ready operations. This announcement provides stability for hundreds of workers and their families while creating a path for long-term success at the Souderton facility.”
Pennsylvania Secretary of Agriculture Russell Redding said: “This investment is a major win for producers, protecting family-sustaining jobs and preserving a facility that serves as an important economic anchor for the region. Its continued operation supports workers and their families while creating stability for farmers, suppliers, local businesses, and the broader food and agriculture sector across the region. We appreciate JBS’s commitment to Souderton and recognize the strong partnership that helped secure this important investment.”
