Tyson Foods has announced the closure of its beef processing plant located in Lexington, Nebraska. This decision will result in the discontinuation of operations at the facility, while simultaneously, the company plans to consolidate beef production at its Amarillo, Texas plant into a single full-capacity shift. Despite the closure, Tyson Foods assured that they are committed to supporting affected team members during this transition. The company will assist with applications for jobs at other facilities and provide relocation benefits, though a specific timeline for the closure has not been provided.
In Nebraska, Tyson Foods operates five other plants, including one in Omaha. Nebraska Governor Jim Pillen commented on the situation, highlighting the resilience of the state’s cattle industry, which he described as “the envy of the world.” He emphasized that the state’s workers are highly capable and that local cattlemen and feeders will have continuing opportunities to sell into the Tyson market. The planned reorganization is anticipated to increase capacity and create jobs at other plants in Nebraska, with Tyson leadership expressing intentions to explore future value-added opportunities within the state.
U.S. Senator Deb Fischer, who serves on the Senate Agriculture Committee, expressed her strong disappointment regarding the closure. As the largest employer in Lexington, the announcement carries significant implications for the local community and the broader region. Fischer underscored the resilience of Nebraskans and expressed hope that their skills would be sought by other employers. Reflecting on the volatility of the cattle market, she noted past profits made by packers like Tyson contrasted with the financial struggles faced by the rest of the industry. Ahead of the holiday season, she urged Tyson Foods to support affected families adequately.
Senator Pete Ricketts also labeled the decision as “heartbreaking,” stating his commitment to assisting impacted Nebraskans in finding new employment opportunities while emphasizing the emotional toll this news has, especially during the holiday season. He called for the community of Lexington to be in the thoughts and prayers of fellow residents.
Representative Mike Flood articulated his belief in the community’s resilience in the face of adversity. He described the announcement as devastating for both beef producers and the region as a whole, recalling how ranchers have maintained their operations even during challenging times. Flood pointed out a past closure of a Tyson plant in Norfolk in 2006, raising concerns about the future of the Lexington facility and the possibility of it remaining idle, unlike its predecessor. He called for Tyson to ensure that the Lexington plant retains its ability to operate as a beef processing facility to sustain local jobs that support agricultural communities.
As this situation unfolds, local leaders emphasize the necessity for cooperation to help affected individuals and families navigate the transition. The hope remains that Nebraska’s workforce will adapt and recover from this setback, showcasing the strength and unity of the community.
