NASHVILLE, TENN. (RFD NEWS) — A labor dispute at one of the nation’s largest beef processing facilities is continuing into a third week, raising concerns about potential impacts on production and the broader cattle market.
Nearly 3,800 workers at JBS-owned Swift Beef Company in Greeley, Colorado, remain on strike as negotiations between the company and union representatives have stalled. The strike, which began on March 16, centers on allegations of unfair labor practices, wage concerns, and workplace conditions.
Union officials say the company has not returned to the bargaining table, while workers are seeking higher wages that better reflect inflation, along with improvements in health care costs and safety practices. The dispute follows months of negotiations and comes after workers voted to authorize a strike earlier this year.
Operational impacts are becoming more visible. Reports indicate the Greeley facility — one of the largest beef plants in the country — has been largely idle, with only limited production. Attempts to shift output to other plants have not fully offset the lost capacity, contributing to a reduction in market share.
The situation comes at a time when the beef sector is already navigating tight cattle supplies and strong demand, making any disruption to processing capacity more significant for the supply chain.
If the strike continues, it could tighten near-term beef supplies and add volatility to cattle markets, particularly in the Plains region.
Farm-Level Takeaway: Processing disruptions could impact cattle markets if the strike continues.
Tony St. James, RFD NEWS Markets Specialist
For communities that depend on agriculture as their primary economic engine, the recession is not defined by headlines on Wall Street. It is defined by the quiet disappearance of the businesses that once processed, serviced, and supported the crop.
February 25, 2026 05:00 AM
·
Alan Bjerga of the National Milk Producers Federation discusses the Dairy Margin Coverage program, recent improvements, and what producers need to know ahead of this week’s enrollment deadline.
February 24, 2026 03:01 PM
·
UNL Extension’s Troy Walz discusses the Nebraska Ranch Practicum, where sessions are held, how producers can get involved, and what ranchers can gain from participating in the program.
February 24, 2026 01:16 PM
·
The Ranger Road Fire in the Oklahoma Panhandle is now 65% contained after burning nearly 300,000 acres over the past week. Kevin Charleston of Specialty Risk Insurance Agency discusses wildfire recovery, livestock insurance considerations, and the importance of preparedness for producers across the Southern Plains.
February 24, 2026 12:28 PM
·
Higher output keeps milk supplies ample, reinforcing expectations for softer dairy prices even as feed costs remain favorable.
February 24, 2026 07:30 AM
·
Singer-songwriter and RanchHER Clare Dunn reflects on the importance of National FFA Week, her time in FFA, and her commitment to advocating for agriculture and rural issues.
February 23, 2026 02:15 PM
·
