Foster Farms will cease fresh turkey processing activities at its facility in Turlock County, California, effective May 9, 2025.
A press release from the company stated that this decision was made in response to changes in market demand and is part of Foster Farms' ongoing strategic plan.
“We recognize that this decision impacts the lives of many of our committed team members and does not reflect their efforts,” said Foster Farms CEO Jayson Penn. “We thank the team for their contributions, hard work, and ongoing dedication as we support them throughout this transition.”
The feed mill in Turlock is also scheduled for closure, a spokesperson for the company confirmed.
The Turlock Journal reported that these operational changes will affect 519 employees.
The company stated in its press release that it would continue to have a significant presence in California’s Central Valley and would remain a key employer in the Turlock community with the continued operation of its fully cooked poultry facility there.
No other Foster Farms facilities will be impacted.
The Turlock processing plant employees will be offered the option to transfer to available opportunities at Foster Farms’ other Central Valley facilities. Foster Farms will provide its team members with individualized job placement and support services.
Other turkey plant closures
Foster Farms is not alone in its decision to cease turkey plant operations. Cargill recently confirmed that it would close its turkey plant in Springdale, Arkansas, in August.
Butterball in December announced plans to close a turkey further processing plant in Jonesboro, Arkansas. That closure is scheduled for February 3.
