GOLDSBORO, NC. – Maxwell Foods LLC, a pork production company in Goldsboro, NC, and a subsidiary of Goldsboro Milling Co., announced that it will be permanently closing its hog operations in 2021.

The company, which started 31 years ago, said it will stop operations in a phased approach over time based on growing cycles.

“The continuing low prices paid for our product, together with the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic, make the current and projected financial losses unsustainable for the company to continue operating,” Maxwell Foods said in a statement. “The Maxwell family recognizes the enormity of this decision and it was with great difficulty that it was made.”

Maxwell has about 150 contract farmers in its system.

After the announcement, the North Carolina Pork Council (NCPC) released its own statement regarding Maxwell’s closure:

“We are deeply saddened that the persistent and untenable economic conditions mean that Maxwell Foods has reached the difficult decision to cease hog production operations by the middle of 2021,” NCPC said. “Maxwell Foods and its network of family farmers have been an important and vital part of Eastern North Carolina communities and their economic stability. The Maxwell family, its executive team, its employees and its farm family system have all been at the forefront of continued progress in producing safe, quality and affordable pork products that are beloved here in North Carolina — and around the world.”

The association said it was optimistic about the phased transition process that will allow employees to find other opportunities in livestock agriculture.