Full Breakdown
JBS Workers Prepare to Strike Amid Record Beef Prices
3/10/2026, 11:08:47 AM
Overview of the Labor Disruption
Approximately 3,800 workers at JBS's meatpacking plant in Greeley, Colorado, are set to strike starting March 16, 2026. This labor action threatens to significantly disrupt production at one of the largest beef processing facilities in the United States, coinciding with record-high beef prices for consumers. The strike is primarily driven by the workers' union, the United Food and Commercial Workers Local 7, which represents a workforce largely composed of immigrants.
Economic Context and Implications
The impending strike comes at a time when the U.S. cattle supply has reached a 75-year low, contributing to soaring beef prices. JBS, as the world's largest meat company, has reported substantial profits, with a third-quarter profit of $581 million in November 2025, although this figure represents a decline from $693 million the previous year. The rising costs of cattle have put pressure on meatpackers, who are benefiting from high prices while facing increased expenses.
Workers' Demands and Company Response
Workers are advocating for wage increases that align with inflation and are calling for the elimination of fees for replacing protective equipment necessary for their jobs. Kim Cordova, president of the United Food and Commercial Workers Local 7, emphasized that while consumers are paying record prices for beef, the workers are not seeing any of these benefits. In contrast, JBS maintains that it complies with labor laws and has made a fair contract offer, which it claims is consistent with a national agreement reached in 2025.
Adjustments in Operations
In anticipation of the strike, JBS has begun adjusting its cattle deliveries and processing schedules at the Greeley plant. The company has shifted some production to other facilities and ceased cattle slaughtering at the Greeley location for the week leading up to the strike. Ranchers have reported that they are redirecting cattle to alternative processing sites, such as a facility in Cactus, Texas, due to the canceled operations at Greeley.
Criticism and Opposition
The union has accused JBS of engaging in unfair labor practices and failing to negotiate in good faith over the past eight months. Cordova highlighted that the workers' demands are not being met despite the company's profitability and the rising costs faced by consumers. JBS, on the other hand, asserts that it has provided competitive benefits, including sick leave, as part of the national contract ratified last year.
Verbatim Quotes
- “While customers are paying more than they ever have, none of that is trickling down to the frontline worker that's actually doing all the heavy work,” — Kim Cordova, President, United Food and Commercial Workers Local 7
- “It is strong, fair, and consistent with the historic national contract reached in 2025.” — JBS Statement
What's Next
As the strike date approaches, the situation remains fluid, with potential implications for beef prices and supply chains across the country. The outcome of the labor dispute could set a precedent for future negotiations in the meatpacking industry.
