LENOIR, NC – JBS USA announced last week it will assume full management and operation of the Alex Lee case-ready, fresh-meat processing facility in Lenoir, NC, effective Oct. 6. Owned by Alex Lee, the plant is currently operated by Vantage Foods NC LP.
"JBS USA is excited to expand our case-ready offerings through an innovative partnership with Alex Lee," said Bill Rupp, president and COO of JBS USA Beef. "Our customers increasingly request counter-ready products that are immediately ready for consumers in the meat case. Partnering with Alex Lee, we look forward to building on our record of superior service and offering customized products to meet the needs of our diverse customer base."

Originally designed, built and operated by Vantage Foods, this facility is a USDA-inspected plant that produces case-ready, fresh-meat products for distribution along the Eastern US seaboard. Product produced at the facility is triple-inspected and undergoes rigorous quality checks prior to delivery to customers, including national retail establishments, according to a news release.
"We are excited about the partnership with JBS and the opportunities one of the largest multi-national protein companies can bring to the Lenoir community," said Brian George, CEO Alex Lee Inc. "We anticipate that all employees will retain their positions, and we expect sales and job growth in the near future."
JBS USA is a subsidiary of JBS SA, the world’s largest animal protein company. JBS USA is also a majority shareholder of Pilgrim's Pride Corporation, the second-largest poultry company in the US.

"We are proud to join the Lenoir community and look forward to widening our customer base through our partnership with Alex Lee," said Adam Bode, Head of JBS USA case-ready operations. "Today's consumer increasingly demands convenience and quality in their meal options. Expanding our successful case ready program to the East Coast will bring that value to our customers and their consumers."