JBS USA, one of the world’s leading food companies, this week announced plans to invest $135 million to build a state-of-the-art sausage production facility in Perry, Iowa. The project, once approved, will create 500 total direct jobs and an estimated 250 local construction jobs.

The company hopes to begin construction in late 2025, with operations expected to commence in late 2026.

The new facility plans to produce 130 million pounds of sausage, processing 500,000 sows each year. This output can feed more than 4 million people nationwide annually, helping meet growing consumer demand for high-quality protein.

“Perry represents everything we value in a community: hard work, strong producer roots, and people who understand the importance of feeding America,” said Wesley Batista Filho, CEO of JBS USA. “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 facility will begin with one shift and 250 team members, with plans to double the workforce and operate two shifts in the future.

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. 

 “We’re excited to see continued investment in Iowa’s pork industry with the proposed opening of this new processing facility,” said Aaron Juergens, a pig farmer from Carroll and president of the Iowa Pork Producers Association. “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.”

About JBS USA
JBS USA is a leading global food company providing diversified, high-quality products to customers in approximately 100 countries on six continents. Headquartered in Greeley, Colorado, the company produces meat and poultry products, a portfolio of recognized brands and innovative premium foods. JBS USA is also a majority shareholder of Pilgrim’s, the largest poultry producer in the world.