Smithfield Foods Celebrates 90 Years of American Heritage

SMITHFIELD, Va., Sept. 16, 2026 /CourierPR/ -- Smithfield Foods, the American food company with a 90-year history, celebrated its milestone anniversary on September 16, 2026, at its headquarters in Smithfield, Virginia. The event brought together employees, community partners, elected officials, and special guests to honor the company's unique American heritage and the long-standing values that have guided its growth.

Founded in 1936 by Joseph W. Luter Sr. and Joseph W. Luter Jr., the company began as a small ham-curing business on Commerce Street in Smithfield. Over the decades, Smithfield has transformed into a leading fresh pork and packaged meats company, with its headquarters still located in the same town where it all began. Today, the company employs 32,000 people in the United States and partners with thousands of American farmers to produce packaged meats, fresh pork, and value-added products at 38 processing facilities across the country.

The company's journey is marked by the acquisition of new brands, starting with Gwaltney in the 1980s. Smithfield now boasts a diverse portfolio of brands, including Patrick Cudahy®, Esskay®, John Morrell®, Curly’s®, Kretschmar®, Farmland Foods®, Carando® Cook’s®, Armour®, Eckrich®, Margherita®, and Farmer John®. In January 2026, Smithfield announced an agreement to acquire Nathan’s Famous®, a brand it has produced under exclusive license since 2014.

Smithfield Foods serves 100% of the top 10 ranked national grocery retailers, 70% of the top 50 ranked national foodservice chains, and all of the top foodservice distributors in the United States. The company's presence in the Virginia state legislature was recognized with resolutions adopted by the Senate of Virginia and Virginia House of Delegates, commemorating Smithfield’s 90-year presence in the Commonwealth.

During the anniversary celebration, Shane Smith, president and CEO of Smithfield Foods, expressed gratitude for the company's long-standing presence in its namesake town.

Smithfield Mayor Michael Smith also addressed the attendees, acknowledging the company's significant contributions to the local community. "We take pride as Smithfield residents knowing that the name Smithfield is on food packages globally. Thank you for addressing food insecurity in local communities and recognizing the needs of others. The town celebrates this milestone and many more to come."

The celebration marked a significant moment in the company's history, reflecting its commitment to innovation and community engagement. As Smithfield looks to the future, the company remains dedicated to its core values and the legacy of its founders.