Imagine a century-old industrial giant packing up and moving—not just anywhere, but to a brand-new, billion-dollar facility. That’s exactly what Smithfield Foods is doing, and it’s shaking up Sioux Falls in a big way. But here’s where it gets controversial: while the move promises cutting-edge technology and economic growth, it also raises questions about the future of the historic site it’s leaving behind—and not everyone agrees on what that future should look like.
Smithfield Foods Inc., a powerhouse in the pork industry, has decided to relocate from its 117-year-old site to a sprawling 200-acre plot in northwest Sioux Falls. The new plant, estimated at a staggering $1.3 billion, will be a marvel of modern technology, boasting advanced automation and IT systems. CEO Shane Smith explained the decision simply: “We faced a choice—pour millions into renovating our aging facility or build something entirely new. The future demanded the latter.”
And this is the part most people miss: while Smithfield’s move is big news, it’s only half the story. Thanks to a $50 million gift from philanthropist Denny Sanford, the 120-acre site adjacent to downtown will transition to community ownership. This opens the door for a transformative redevelopment project that could nearly double the size of downtown Sioux Falls. Mayor Paul TenHaken called it “a once-in-a-generation opportunity,” envisioning a vibrant new district—aptly named The Sanford District—at the heart of the city.
Smithfield’s current plant, built in 1909 as John Morrell & Co., has been a cornerstone of Sioux Falls’ economy, employing 2,200 people and processing 20,000 hogs daily. Acquired by Smithfield in 1995 and later by China-based WH Group in 2013, it’s the company’s second-largest facility and the largest producer of packaged meats in the U.S. The new plant, set to begin construction in 2027, will be even larger, with over 1.4 million square feet of production space.
But here’s the bold question: Is this progress at the expense of history? While the new facility promises jobs and innovation, the old site’s redevelopment could erase a piece of the city’s industrial heritage. Some argue it’s a necessary trade-off, while others worry about losing a connection to the past. What do you think? Is this a win-win, or is there a cost to progress?
Governor Larry Rhoden called the project “proof positive that South Dakota is open for opportunity,” hailing it as the largest business investment in the state’s history. Meanwhile, Mayor TenHaken celebrated the partnership that kept Smithfield in Sioux Falls, saying, “We could have easily lost this plant, but instead, we’ve secured its future here for another century.”
The new facility, located at Foundation Park, is strategically positioned near major highways and rail lines, making it an ideal hub for Smithfield’s operations. Shane Smith described it as a “generational redevelopment” opportunity, emphasizing its long-term impact on the city.
As for the old site, Sanford’s donation was the linchpin that made its transformation possible. TenHaken joked, “I don’t know if Denny Sanford will be remembered as the health care guy or the pork plant guy, but both are equally huge—they’re both transformational.”
This story is far from over. With construction set to begin in 2027 and operations potentially starting by late 2028, Sioux Falls is on the brink of a new era. But as we look to the future, let’s not forget the questions this move raises. Is progress always worth the price? And what does it mean to balance innovation with heritage? Let us know your thoughts in the comments—this conversation is just getting started.
