JBS workers end strike, approve new agreement

Thousands of meatpacking workers in Greeley have approved a new labor contract with JBS, ending one of the largest US plant strikes in decades. 

Around 3,800 employees walked out on March 16, demanding higher wages and better working conditions, before returning to work after three weeks.

Backed by 93% of members from the United Food and Commercial Workers International Union, the agreement will run through April 2028. 

The new deal delivers a nearly 33% wage increase over two years, eliminates workers’ payments for protective equipment, and caps rising healthcare costs. 

Workers will receive an immediate $0.70 hourly raise, followed by $0.40 increases in 2026 and 2027. Entry-level pay now starts at $23.25 per hour, averaging about $26 per hour.

In return, the union will withdraw seven labor complaints against the company.

The deal comes as US beef prices hit record highs due to a 75-year low in cattle supply, while Tyson Foods’ plant closures tightened processing capacity.