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JBS agrees to resume talks, prompting end to three‑week worker strike in Greeley, Colorado

Workers at the JBS meat processing facility in Greeley, Colorado are set to return to work, ending a strike that’s lasted nearly three weeks. The slaughter capacity at JBS in Greeley is 5,500 head, or about 5 percent of the approximate daily total beef slaughter capacity in the U.S.

United Food and Commercial Workers Local 7 President Kim Cordova says the decision came after JBS agreed to meet April 9 and 10 to resume contract negotiations. Workers are scheduled to return for shifts April 7.

Cordova says workers remain united, and will continue to fight for a contract that addresses unfair labor practices and ensures better pay and protections.

In a statement issued to Brownfield, a spokesperson for JBS says the decision by the union came without any new agreement or change to company’s original offer. Throughout the process, the company says it has remained committed to good-faith negotiations and to operating the facility safely, responsibly, and in compliance with all regulatory standards.

JBS says, “Our Last, Best and Final offer remains on the table and the comprehensive proposal includes meaningful wage increases, a pension, and other valuable benefits designed to support our team members and their families.” The company says the offer is a strong and competitive package, and it hopes employees will have the opportunity to review and vote on it soon. JBS says it is pleased to welcome team members back and are preparing to resume and ramp up operations at the Greeley plant next week. The focus remains on ensuring a smooth and safe return to work for all employees while continuing to meet the needs of their customers and community.

The strike began March 16.