JBS Meatpacking Strike: First Work Stoppage in 40 Years Disrupts US Beef Supply

A strike at the JBS USA meatpacking plant in Greeley, Colorado, initiated on Monday, March 16, 2026, marks the first work stoppage in the US beef processing industry in four decades. Approximately 3,800 workers are participating, impacting a significant portion of the nation’s beef production.

Background: JBS and the US Beef Industry

JBS USA is the largest beef processing plant in the United States, controlling an estimated 85% of US beef production alongside three other major players CNN. The company employs around 25,000 people across nine facilities nationwide, with a workforce largely comprised of immigrants.

Strike Demands and Union Position

The strike was called after contract negotiations between JBS and United Food and Commercial Workers (UFCW) Local 7 failed to reach an agreement. The union is demanding higher wages, improved healthcare benefits, and life-saving safety equipment for its members CNN. UFCW Local 7 President Kim Cordova stated that JBS has been “insisting on poverty-level wages” while simultaneously increasing healthcare costs for workers CNN.

Workers have also raised concerns about increased production speeds and dangerous working conditions. One JBS worker, Deborah Rodarte, stated, “We work very hard, in challenging conditions, and want JBS to negotiate fairly for a contract that will allow us to live with dignity” CNN.

JBS Response and Operational Status

JBS acknowledged the strike and stated that its current offer includes “meaningful wage increases, a secure pension, and long‑term financial stability” for its unionized workers CNN. The company intends to continue operating the Greeley facility “to the best of its ability” during the work stoppage CNN.

Economic Impact and Beef Prices

The strike occurs during a period of rising beef prices, which have increased by 15.2% in the past year due to the smallest US cattle herd in 75 years CNN. Cordova warned that a prolonged closure of the JBS plant could have a significant economic impact, not only in Colorado but across the United States CNN.

The Trump administration announced in February 2026 that it was quadrupling beef imports from Argentina to 80,000 metric tons in an attempt to mitigate rising prices.

Legal Challenges and Prior Disputes

The strike was authorized following a vote where 99% of UFCW Local 7 members approved a potential Unfair Labor Practice (ULP) strike UFCW Local 7. The union has filed multiple ULP charges against JBS, alleging regressive bargaining, threats related to bonus payments, and illegal intimidation tactics UFCW Local 7. JBS previously agreed to pay $83.5 million in February 2026 for conspiring to price fix with other meatpackers CNN.

The strike is currently intended to last two weeks but could be extended depending on the progress of negotiations.