JBS Opens Modern Beef Distribution Center In Grand Island, Nebraska

JBS USA, a leading processor of quality beef products in the U.S., recently announced the opening of a state-of-the-art distribution center at the company's beef processing plant in Grand Island, Nebraska. The new facility boasts increased storage and product handling capabilities intended to enhance customer service.

The first phase of construction on a dedicated 83,000 square-foot structure with 12 loading doors for the new distribution center is complete, providing a storage capacity of 35,000 boxes of beef and immediate advancements in JBS's customer service capabilities. The second phase of construction is scheduled for completion in late spring 2014, resulting in a total storage capacity of 100,000 boxes of beef.

The Grand Island beef processing facility produces boxed beef, ground beef and case-ready beef solutions for an expanding domestic and global customer base. In addition to the legacy Swift brand, the plant produces premium program products including 1855 Black Angus, Swift Black Angus and Certified Angus Beef.

"Installation of the new distribution center is designed to benefit our customers by improving service levels and overall plant effectiveness," said Al Byers, leader of the JBS USA fed beef business unit. "The system's advanced technology further enhances our ability to meet the unique needs of our customers in domestic and international markets."

Retrotech automation with additional sortation lanes and high-speed palletizers will be installed in February 2014, streamlining the plant's ability to seamlessly deliver products to customers worldwide. The distribution center will also include an advanced combo storage system and Meat Master technology system for increased product consistency and quality.

The commissioning of eight Viastore cranes will mark the final phase of construction. The new distribution system will increase warehouse productivity, capacity and utilization, while providing more reliable service through the efficient, sustainable distribution of beef products to customers around the world. The design of the distribution center allows for continual expansion to meet the growing needs of customers.

"We are dedicated to providing the best possible service, selection and value to our customers," Byers said. "The new distribution center will strengthen our ability to remain a reliable and efficient supplier, while consistently meeting the expectations of our customers. Our investment in the new distribution center demonstrates our long-term commitment to the community in Grand Island and our customers who demand loyal, quality service."

The investment in the Grand Island plant reaffirms the company's strategy to enhance quality and service through capital investment and innovation. The modern distribution center will benefit a global customer base that provides a diverse range of quality beef offerings to millions of Americans and consumers in more than 20 countries around the world.

JBS's operation in Grand Island was established in 1965 and is located on 131 acres in central Nebraska. The facility employs more than 3,200 JBS team members and has the capacity to process more than 5,400 head of cattle per day.