The Cargill Fresno Protein Processing Plant. Google Street View

Hanford-based Central Valley Meat Holding Co. has expanded once again with the announcement Tuesday that it has reached an agreement to acquire the Cargill Meat Solutions beef processing plant in Fresno.

The move strengthens the company’s processing capabilities, allowing it to better meet market demands while reinforcing its commitment to supporting the cattle and dairy industry in California and the western region, according to a news release.

The terms of the acquisition agreement were not disclosed. Family-owned Cargill is recognized as the country’s largest privately owned business in the country by revenue, with Bloomberg reporting that from 2020 to 2023 it reported profits of about $18.5 billion.

“Our decision to acquire the Cargill Meat Solutions beef processing facility in Fresno, California aligns with our long-term vision of strengthening our offerings to better serve the needs of our customers,” said Brian Coelho, CEO and owner of Central Valley Meat. “We’re excited to work alongside cattle producers in the state and region to continue delivering quality beef products for our customers and consumers.”

Cargill has nearly 1,000 employees at its south Fresno beef plant, according to its website. Cargill will continue to operate a neighboring ground beef and hamburger patty facility in Fresno, which supplies McDonald’s West Coast locations.

Cargill team members will have the opportunity to explore roles with Central Valley Meat, with a commitment from both companies to retain as many employees as possible, according to a news release. 

Central Valley Meat Holding Co. traces its roots to the founding of Coelho Meat Co. by Brian Coelho’s father in 1981, processing 15 cattle per day. Today, it processes more than 1,500 cattle per day. It employs more than 2,000 people at four different facilities, including Central Valley Meat in Hanford, Harris Ranch Beef Co. in Selma, Harris Ranch Feeding in Coalinga and CLW Foods in Los Angeles.

The Harris Ranch acquisition occurred in 2019.