The processor will temporarily suspend its beef processing operations this Saturday in a move it says is designed to protect the long-term sustainability of the business.

Chief exeucutive officer Michael Rapattoni said the shut down would enable Harvey Beef to manage a build-up of stock created by the downturn in the world economy.

"Harvey Beef operates in a global business environment," he said.

"The company is not immune from the impacts of the current economic climate, which has reduced demand, prices, and credit availability to our overseas customers.

"In response we have taken decisive and prudent short-term action to protect the long-term sustainability of the business and the workers, suppliers and customers that rely on it.

"In addition, the company is also reviewing all of its operating costs and expenditure to identify operational efficiencies it can achieve to cement its long-term sustainability.

"Beef supplies to domestic retailers will be unaffected by the temporary closure.

"Beef processing will resume on Monday, February 2."