US poultry producer Foster Farms plans to stop fresh turkey processing at its Turlock facility in California in May.

The company said it was responding to “changes in market demand”.

Discover B2B Marketing That Performs

Combine business intelligence and editorial excellence to reach engaged professionals across 36 leading media platforms.

Find out more

Earlier this week, US agri-food giant Cargill said it would close a turkey-processing plant in Arkansas in August.

Affected employees at Foster Farms’ Turlock site will have the option to transfer to available positions the company has in California’s Central Valley.

The end to fresh turkey processing, scheduled for 9 May, will not affect the company’s fully cooked poultry facility in Turlock.

In March last year, Foster Farms appointed Jayson Penn as CEO. He succeeded former Tyson Foods’ executive Donnie Smith, who was named CEO of Foster Farms when Atlas Holdings acquired the business from the Foster family owners in 2022.

GlobalData Strategic Intelligence

US Tariffs are shifting - will you react or anticipate?

Don’t let policy changes catch you off guard. Stay proactive with real-time data and expert analysis.

By GlobalData

Foster Farms was acquired by private-equity firm Atlas Holdings in June 2022.

Commenting on the changes in Turlock, Penn said: “We recognise that this decision impacts the lives of many of our committed team members and does not reflect their efforts.”

Headquartered in California’s Central Valley, Foster Farms also operates ranches in the Pacific Northwest and Louisiana.

It produces a range of fresh, pre-marinated, and fully cooked poultry products for retail, food service, and warehouse club customers.

Just Food Excellence Awards - The Benefits of Entering

Gain the recognition you deserve! The Just Food Excellence Awards celebrate innovation, leadership, and impact. By entering, you showcase your achievements, elevate your industry profile, and position yourself among top leaders driving food industry advancements. Don’t miss your chance to stand out—submit your entry today!

Nominate Now