Why is the Tyson pork processing facility closing? The decision to close the facility was made by Tyson to optimize the efficiency of operations to better serve their customers.
What options are available for the impacted employees? Tyson is encouraging employees to apply for other open roles within the company. Additional resources and support are being provided by state and local officials to assist Tyson employees seeking a new position outside of the company.
How will the closure affect local pork producers? Approximately 100 pork producers will need to find alternative sources to harvest their animals, as the Perry plant processes 9,000 hogs each day. Tyson has indicated that hogs will be rerouted to Storm Lake and/or Des Moines facilities for the time being.
How will the Tyson closure affect the local economy? A ripple effect in the local and state economy is anticipated by research and economic professionals. PerryNext is working to mitigate the economic damage created by the Tyson closure. As more information is shared by Tyson, PerryNext will be able to better determine next steps in planning for economic recovery.
Is there any assistance for businesses affected by the closure? Local businesses can seek assistance through state and local economic development programs. Please reach out to Greater Dallas County Development Alliance for business resources.
What will happen to the Tyson facility after it closes? The future use of the facility is currently under discussion. Details about when it will reopen and who will purchase the building are still unknown.
Are there plans to sell or repurpose the building? Tyson has been working with local, regional and state economic developers to discuss interest in the building and best use of the space. If you are interested in information about the building, please contact Greater Dallas County Development Alliance.
How will the Tyson closure impact environmental sustainability efforts? Tyson has indicated its commitment to environmental sustainability and will work to minimize any negative impacts from the closure. The City of Perry anticipates infrastructure disruptions and is working with industry professionals to create a plan to preserve and conserve resources.
What support is available for the community during this transition? Community support services, including counseling and job placement assistance, are being provided to those affected. For more information on these resources and who to contact, please scroll down to the Counseling and Support Resources section of this page.
How can the public stay informed about developments related to the Tyson closure? Updates have been provided through local news outlets and Tyson’s official communication channels. PerryNext will also be updating this page as well as provide update through the PerryNext Facebook page as new information is received.
How will this closure affect the price and supply of pork products? The issue is being monitored by pork industry experts to determine how the price and supply of pork will be affected.
Are there any health and safety concerns for the community following the closure? Health and safety regulations will continue to be enforced to ensure community well-being. If you notice any safety and health concerns, please notify the City of Perry. If the safety or health concern is an emergency, please dial 911.
Will there be any environmental impacts due to the closure? Tyson’s pork production facility handles animal biproducts. The closure is expected to impact waste management and recycling processes and the City is working with professionals to understand the long term impact.
I am an employer, how do I reach out to prospective employees who have been affected by the closure? In a joint effort by the City of Perry, Perry Economic Development, Perry Chamber of Commerce, and DMACC VanKirk Career Academy to provide support and assistance to current employees of the Perry Tyson plant, a series of Job Fairs will be planned throughout the spring. In an attempt to streamline communications when these opportunities are finalized - and also to have on hand as a resource for reference - this survey serves as the primary intake for area employers interested in participating in upcoming job fairs and/or included on a list of area businesses with open positions: Perry Job Fair Employer Survey