3,800 Workers Strike at JBS Colorado Beef Plant Over Labor Disputes

Key Details About 3,800 workers at the Swift Beef Co. plant in Greeley, Colorado walked off the job on March 16, marking the first beef slaughterhouse strike in the U.S. since the 1980s. The strike began after the previous contract expired at midnight March 15, with union representatives from United Food and Commercial Workers Local 7 saying workers participated in picket lines throughout the day. Why It Matters Union officials claim JBS USA engaged in retaliation and unfair labor practices during contract negotiations. Workers are primarily concerned about wages and safer working conditions, with 99% of employees voting to authorize the strike. No formal negotiations occurred after the company refused a union request to discuss terms on March 14. Operational Impact JBS USA, ranked No. 10 among agriculture and food processing carriers in North America, announced it would operate two shifts on March 16 and temporarily redirect production to other facilities. The company stated that employees choosing not to strike would receive regular pay and work. JBS maintains it operates in full compliance with all federal and state labor laws. Broader Context This strike occurs amid historically low U.S. cattle populations and elevated beef prices, creating significant economic pressure. The incident follows a January meatpacking plant closure in Nebraska and reflects ongoing tensions in the food processing industry.