Tyson Foods to Close Iowa Pork Plant, Affecting Over 1,200 Jobs

Tyson Foods is permanently closing its pork plant in Perry, Iowa in June, leaving over 1,200 workers without jobs.

The closure comes after Tyson closed 2 chicken plants and cut jobs last year, with plans to cease operations at 4 more plants in early 2024.

Tyson says the Iowa closure will "optimize efficiency," but it follows a dire year for pork producers facing rising costs and low prices.

An economist says Tyson likely targeted the older, smaller Perry plant because its size made it less efficient.

Earlier closures include 2 plants last May affecting 1,600+ jobs, plus cuts to corporate and leadership roles.