Pilgrim's Pride

Pilgrim's Pride

Pilgrim's Pride Corporation is an American, multi-national food company, currently one of the largest chicken producers in the United States and Puerto Rico and the second-largest chicken producer in Mexico. It exited bankruptcy in December 2009 and relocated its U.S. headquarters to Greeley, Colorado, in 2011. It is majority-owned by JBS S.A., the largest meat processor in the world.

History

Pilgrim's Pride was founded in 1946 by Lonnie "Bo" Pilgrim and his older brother, Aubrey. They started out by selling feed, then later they expanded to selling chickens. The brothers took the company public in 1986.

Operations

Pilgrim's Pride is a supplier of chicken products to chain restaurants, food processors, broad-line distributors and grocery stores. The company's primary distribution is in the United States; however, it also has operations in Mexico and Puerto Rico.

Controversies

Pilgrim's Pride has been involved in several controversies throughout its history, including issues related to animal welfare, environmental damage, and labor rights.

Bankruptcy and Acquisition by JBS

In 2008, Pilgrim's Pride filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection, citing high feed costs and an oversupply of chicken. In 2009, the company was purchased by JBS S.A., a Brazilian company that is the world's largest processor of fresh beef and pork.

See Also

• Chicken industry in the United States
• JBS S.A.
• Lonnie "Bo" Pilgrim

External Links

• Official website