Illinois Beef Association’s Executive Vice President, Josh St. Peters, issued the following statement in response to Tyson Foods’ announced closure of the beef processing plant in Joslin, Illinois:
“The Illinois Beef Association is deeply disappointed by Tyson Foods’ sudden decision to close its processing facility in Joslin. For decades, the Rock Island County plant has served as a critical market for family farmers and has been an important economic driver for rural Illinois. This abrupt closure creates significant challenges for hundreds of producers who relied on the plant to market cattle, while also impacting 2,500 employees, countless local businesses, and the broader regional economy.
“While Illinois beef producers look to invest in their operations and play a role in rebuilding the nation’s cow herd, the loss of this major processing facility in our state creates additional uncertainty by reducing market access and increasing transportation and marketing costs. Our Association is here to work closely with affected producers and industry partners to identify alternative marketing opportunities and explore any options that could keep the facility operating.
“This announcement underscores the importance of maintaining a strong and competitive beef sector. Adequate processing capacity is critical to ensuring reliable market access for Illinois’ farm families and strengthening the long-term resilience of the beef supply chain.”
***Courtesy of the Illinois Beef Association***
