The National Cattlemen’s Beef Association (NCBA) Chief Executive Officer Colin Woodall issued the following statement in response to Tyson Foods’ announced closure of its beef processing plant in Joslin, Illinois, and additional restructuring efforts:
“NCBA is troubled by the closure of the Joslin beef processing facility. For many years, the plant has played a vital role in the Midwest beef supply chain, and its closure will significantly impact cattle producers, employees, and rural communities across the region. We encourage Tyson to work closely with its longstanding customers to identify alternative marketing opportunities for their cattle.
“Tyson Foods’ Pasco, Washington, beef processing facility is also critical for cattle producers in the Northwest, and we appreciate the company’s commitment to seek a buyer rather than pursuing an outright closure.
“These decisions underscore the significant challenges that historically-low cattle inventories continue to create across the beef cattle industry. While we are disappointed by these developments, they also reinforce the importance of rebuilding the nation’s cow herd and maintaining adequate processing capacity to support cattle producers, strengthen market opportunities, and ensure a resilient beef supply chain for the future.”
