The Grain Division reported an increase in bushels marketed through the five grain retail units. Eastern Grain Marketing began construction on a Norfolk Southern rail loader near Kankakee, Ill., which will provide increased marketing opportunities for area farmers when complete. Risk management services, including MID-CO Commodities, and AgriVisor, LLC, reported continued strong demand for the products and services offered.

All of GROWMARK’s retail divisions reported successful years. Total retail division sales are estimated at $1.7 billion, which includes GROWMARK FS estimated sales of $260 million, and SEEDWAY estimated sales of $110 million which, if realized, would be a record. Several acquisitions, efficiency improvements, target marketing, and enhanced people resources added to this year’s success.

 “Although we are proud of our financial results, we are very aware of the widespread impact of this year’s drought. Our entire economy will feel the effects in one form or another,” Solberg said. “Still, we remain optimistic about the future of agriculture. We stand ready to support our member companies and customers by continuing to be a reliable supplier of the products and services they need to assist their farmer-customers in meeting the food, fiber and fuel needs of a growing world population.”