Columbia Grain International (CGI) has opened a new 60,000-square-foot packing facility in Hastings, NE.
“Because CGI sources its beans and legumes directly from our network of American farmers, we can now provide customized retail packages without compromising quality, supply and safety,” said Bill Germano, retail product manager.
“Our new facility in Hastings, NE, will allow us to efficiently supply grocers across the U.S.”
The new SQF-certified facility is fully automated with critical control points to manage packaging and product quality. A number of package options can be processed.
Based in Portland, CGI supplies pulses and grain products to U.S. food manufacturers as well as packages to retailers. The company, a member of the Private Label Manufacturers Association, plans to launch its own Balanced Bushel brand in early 2023, Germano said.
CGI restructured U.S.-based grain, pulse business
In July, CGI announced a major restructuring of its U.S.-based grain and pulse business assets and strategy going forward.
The company acquired eight silo locations previously owned by Gavilon, including three facilities in Wolf Point and Chester, MT, and Valley City, ND they have been operating since 2014.
Additionally, CGI has acquired the assets and employees in Moore, MT; Fairview, MT; New Rockford, ND; Carrington, ND; Rogers, ND; and Jamestown, ND.
CGI also has increased its ownership of Kalama Holdco (KHC) to 75% ownership interest. KHC is a 60.6% owner in Pacificor, the joint venture export arm of Columbia Grain.
In July, CGI said it anticipates further growth in its agri-input businesses and the positive results this will have on its ability to service its producers.
“CGI is dedicated to cultivating the growth of the food supply chain in the northern region of the U.S. to ensure the world receives the highest-quality foods from our 8,000 farmers," said Van Pevenage.
"These new acquisitions and ownership interests prove that CGI provides trusted solutions for a farm-to-table philosophy that nourishes the world, safely."
