JBS USA announced it would invest $130 million to increase annual processing capacity by 300,000 head at its Grand Island and Omaha, NE, facilities. Additionally, the company announced it would raise pay at the facilities by $150 million a year.
By late summer, the company is expected to complete the construction of a new harvest floor and enhanced animal welfare facilities at its Grand Island beef production facility. At the Omaha plant, renovations include upgrading the fabrication floor and expanding cooler space. The capital investments will benefit more than 1,100 cattle producers supplying the two facilities, the company said.
“At JBS USA, we recognize the importance and cultural significance of beef—from the men and women who raise cattle, to the frontline essential workers who process beef, to the families who enjoy a tender steak or hamburger as part of the family meal,” said Tim Schellpeper, president of the JBS USA Fed Beef business unit.
“Our longstanding commitment to the U.S. beef industry and continued reinvestment in its success will help ensure that beef remains at the center of plates around the world for years to come.”
JBS USA also announced $150 million in annualized wage increases permanently over the past year. The average wage for hourly JBS workers is over $22 per hour. The permanent wage increases are also in addition to the $71 million in short-term incentives and non-permanent bonus payments provided to workers during the pandemic. In March, JBS began offering all of its workers and their dependent children free college tuition for two years through its Better Futures program.
“We are proud to offer industry-leading wages and benefits to the men and women who make our business possible,” said Shannon Grassl, president of the JBS regional beef business. “At JBS USA, you can build a career, and you and your children can go to college for free.”
The Grand Island facility is a two-shift facility employing approximately 3,600 people and the Omaha plant is a single shift facility with 650 people. The Omaha facility specializes in high-end specialty beef products, including grass-fed, Wagyu and organic beef. — Charles Wallace, WLJ editor
