Jodi's Journal: Smithfield story sets stage for Sioux Falls' future

February 22, 2026 - 18:58

The story of Smithfield Foods in Sioux Falls is far more than a corporate history; it is a foundational narrative that continues to shape the city's economic trajectory. The meatpacking giant's long-standing presence established a powerful industrial base, creating thousands of jobs and fostering a diverse community. Its evolution, including periods of significant change and reinvestment, serves as a critical case study in resilience and adaptation.

This legacy now sets the stage for Sioux Falls' future. The city has successfully leveraged its experience with major employers to diversify into finance, healthcare, and technology. The workforce development, infrastructure, and business acumen honed over decades provide a robust platform for new growth. Leaders are actively building on this industrial foundation, aiming to attract innovative industries while sustaining the economic pillars that have long provided stability.

The lessons learned from the Smithfield story—in managing growth, navigating challenges, and investing in community—are directly informing current strategic planning. As Sioux Falls positions itself for the coming decades, it does so with the confidence and capability forged in part by its most iconic business stories, using that past not as a blueprint, but as a springboard for a dynamic and diversified future.