Staff at Alliance's Smithfield meatworks in Timaru called to meeting

Staff at Alliance Group's Smithfield meatworks in Timaru have been called to a meeting on Friday.

Alliance Group chief executive Willie Wiese says the company has requested Smithfield employees attend the meeting.

He says it is inappropriate to comment further.

Alliance is one of the biggest employers in the Timaru District and employs around 500 staff during its peak season.

Hundreds of people work at its Smithfield plant - processing sheep and deer.

Alliance is the country's only entirely farmer-owned red meat co-operative.

It is owned by around 4500 farmer shareholders and exports to more than 65 countries.