Canadian agribusiness Richardson International has announced an investment to boost the processing capacity of its oat mill in Bedford, UK.
The capital will be used to expand the facility and increase its capacity by upwards of 35%. The project will aim to improve all operational aspects of the plant, from intake and warehousing capabilities to logistics and distribution.
When completed, the Bedford mill will feature a high-speed receiving system as well as increased storage capacity and warehouse space. ‘Extensive’ modernisation of the plant is expected to support production and processing efficiencies.
Construction work at the site will begin later this spring and is expected to be completed in 2025, with no disruption to current operations.
“The global oats segment is thriving as shifting consumer behaviours drive market growth,” said Benoit Soucy, vice-president, milling operations at Richardson International.
“A significant investment such as this will enable us to fulfil the incremental demand of our customers as we continue to efficiently meet current requirements and anticipate their evolving needs.”
David Jordan, board director, Richardson Milling UK, added: “As a world-class oat milling operation, we are incredibly excited by our new plans. Consumer interest in healthy oat products continues to grow and we see this as a great opportunity to supply existing and new customers with quality oat products.
“The outlook is positive for all industry participants – from the farming community and our facility staff to our suppliers and valued customers.”
Richardson also recently announced an investment to increase the processing capacity of its canola crush plant in Yorkton, Canada.
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