Smithfield Foods to renovate Sioux Falls facility in Dakota

US-based meat processing company Smithfield Foods is planning to expand its operations in Sioux Falls, South Dakota, with an investment of $45m.

This amount will be invested on renovating a high-speed bacon line, a ground seasoned pork operation and distribution centre, as well as rebuilding the facility that currently houses more than 8,000 hogs.

The investment is expected to create 70 jobs at the Sioux Falls facility.

Smithfield Foods president and CEO Kenneth Sullivan said: “At Smithfield, we’re committed to our continual investment in our facilities and farms in Sioux Falls.

“In the past five years, we have invested more than $73m into our operations in South Dakota, which positively impacts the local economy. With these new projects, we’re proud to further strengthen our presence in this state.”

Once renovations are completed by May 2019, Smithfield will be able to meet the growing domestic demand for bacon and overseas demand for ground seasoned pork.

The renovated facility will produce bacon in higher volume and better quality than the current production. It will feature the latest technology for automated packaging, boxing, labelling and stacking.

Renovation of the existing distribution centre is scheduled to be completed by March.

Smithfield is also renovating its hog barn, which will be completed early next year.

Smithfield Foods international group president Jason Richter said: “Export markets are key for the continued growth of all US hog producers and pork processors.

“This new project further positions the company to meet the demands of consumers in these key markets, benefiting our national and local economies, including creating new jobs in Sioux Falls.”