Cargill to build new soybean processing plant
construct a new soybean processing plant in Kansas City.
The new facility, which is due to be completed by the first quarter of 2008, will replace the firm's existing plant in the area.
Designed to update the current "older, outdated" unit, the US company expects the new facility to increase its soybean processing capacity from 95,000 bushels per day to 165,000 bushels per day.
Pending permit approval, construction will begin this summer, on a site adjacent to Cargill's existing processing plant. On completion, the firm plans to demolish its old plant.
According to the company, the new facility will increase operating efficiencies by 20-25 percent.
"It will be more energy efficient due to more efficient extraction and hulling processes, less repair and maintenance, meaning more up-time in production and therefore lower operating costs," said the firm.
Soybean processing will also deliver higher oil yields.
"This is a strategic investment that reflects Cargill's ongoing commitment to Missouri's agriculture industry," said president of Cargill's grain and oilseeds North American business Wayne Teddy. "We are replacing an average-sized but aging unit with a world-class soybean processing facility."
In Missouri, Cargill has 1,063 employees in seven businesses located in 13 communities across the state. In North America, Cargill's grain and oilseed business operates 17 oilseed processing facilities.
The company, which had revenues last year of $71bn, has been increasingly moving into higher margin businesses such as developing ingredients for food groups, and away from core commodities.
Cargill is the largest agricultural firm and one of the largest private companies in the world. Its major agricultural operations include oilseed processing, primarily soybeans, corn milling, meat processing and animal nutrition.
