Smithfield Foods, Inc. is the world’s largest pork processor and hog producer. The company processes 20 million hogs and raises 12 million annually. Since 1981, Smithfield Foods has made over 30 acquisitions to expand geographically and diversify into new product segments.

Fiscal 2002 represented a significant year in the company’s history as they broadened their base business through several strategic initiatives. They included entry into the beef industry through the purchase of Moyer Packing Company and Packerland Holdings.

The company acquired Moyer Packing Company in June 2001 and Packerland Holdings in October 2001. The companies were subsequently merged to create Smithfield Beef Group.

Smithfield’s collection of well-known brands includes Smithfield, Smithfield Lean Generation, John Morrell, Gwaltney, Patrick Cudahy, Krakus, and Stefanos.

Outside the United States, Smithfield owns subsidiaries in France, Poland, Romania and the United Kingdom and operates joint ventures in Europe, Brazil, Mexico, and China. The company employs more than 53,000 people worldwide.