Tyson Foods to Restore Second Shift in Amarillo by Summer 2027

Tyson Foods has announced plans to resume second shift operations at its Amarillo, Texas, processing plant by the summer of 2027. The company made the decision while working to establish a partnership with Allied Beef Company. A news release stated that the collaboration is designed to strengthen the domestic cattle supply chain and support Tyson’s beef production efforts.

The restoration of the shift marks a reversal of a move made earlier this year. Tyson laid off 1,700 workers in January 2026 when it eliminated the second shift. In August, the company indicated its intention to bring the shift back after ending operations at its facilities in Illinois and Utah. The Amarillo plant is now scheduled for a return to full staffing levels.

Texas Agriculture Commissioner Sid Miller reacted to the news in a statement. He described the announcement as positive for workers in the state. Miller said that Texas is beef country and that the move brings more jobs to Texas. He noted that the facility serves as a hub for American beef processing. Miller added that the step supports ranching families who form the backbone of the agricultural economy.

Miller also addressed the source of the beef supply. He stated that America does not need more foreign beef. Instead, he argued for more Texas beef. He said the solution involves rebuilding the American cattle herd. He described the planned partnership with Allied Beef as a step toward prioritizing American producers. The partnership aims to expand domestic processing capacity.

The company’s plan ties the workforce return to a specific timeline. Workers who were laid off in January will not return until 2027. The gap between the layoffs and the return of the shift is nearly eighteen months. The Amarillo facility will operate with two shifts once the plan is fully implemented. The partnership with Allied Beef will support the increased production capacity at the site.