JBS USA, one of the world’s leading food companies, announced plans on May 29 to invest $135 million to build a state-of-the-art sausage production facility in Perry, Iowa. The company hopes to begin construction by the end of the year, with operations expected to commence in late 2026.
Once approved, JBS says the project will create 500 total jobs and an estimated 250 local construction jobs. The facility will begin with one shift and 250 team members, with plans to double the workforce and operate two shifts in the future.
“Perry represents everything we value in a community: hard work, strong producer roots, and people who understand the importance of feeding America,” Wesley Batista Filho, CEO of JBS USA, says in a release. “This investment underscores our commitment to rural America and our confidence in the strength of the U.S. market. We plan to be a long-term partner for Perry and, if approved by the community, the facility will help foster job creation and economic stability in the region.”
The new facility is designed to produce 130 million pounds of sausage, processing 500,000 sows each year. According to the company, this output can feed more than four million people nationwide annually, helping meet growing consumer demand for high-quality protein.
“The investment is part of JBS USA’s broader strategy to serve as America’s leading food producer, while strengthening rural communities through job creation, economic development, and community support programs,” the company says in a release.
A Local Game-Changer
Perry Mayor Dirk Cavanaugh notes the positive impact this plant will have on the local economy and workforce.
“This is a potential game-changer for Perry,” Cavanaugh says. “JBS USA’s intentions to invest here reflects the resilience and promise of our community. This facility will not only create good-paying jobs but also provide long-term benefits for our schools, infrastructure, and local businesses. We’re looking forward to JBS USA sharing more about their plans for Perry and to building a brighter future together.”
This project also has the potential to create opportunities for pork producers, the company says.
“We’re excited to see continued investment in Iowa’s pork industry with the proposed opening of this new processing facility,” Aaron Juergens, a pig farmer from Carroll and president of the Iowa Pork Producers Association, says in a release. “It strengthens our state’s leadership in pork production, creates new opportunities for pork producers, and supports the rural communities that are the backbone of Iowa agriculture. This is a win for pig farmers, Iowa’s economy, and for the Perry area.”
Building Rural Communities
JBS USA says it will extend its signature Hometown Strong and Better Futures programs to Perry. Through Hometown Strong, the company is investing over $100 million in rural communities across the U.S. and Canada, supporting projects like new community centers, affordable housing, school improvements, athletic facilities, childcare enhancements, parks and more. The Better Futures program provides free community college tuition for team members and their children, helping families develop personally and professionally, JBS says.
“We believe in giving back to the communities we call home,” adds Batista Filho. “Our investments in Perry will go beyond dollars—they will help build careers, strengthen families, and ensure a thriving community for generations to come.”
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