Perdue AgriBusiness launches more sustainable barge

Perdue AgriBusiness (PAB) has taken a bold step towards sustainable transportation with the launch of its innovative barge, the "Miss Madeline." The vessel, named in honor of the beloved Perdue family matriarch Madeline Perdue, completed its maiden voyage to the company's hometown.

The "Miss Madeline" is designed to revolutionize freight transportation by reducing greenhouse gas emissions and easing road congestion. On its inaugural journey, the barge transported 4,500 tons (9 million pounds) of crude soybean oil from PAB's soybean crush plant in Chesapeake, Virginia, to its Salisbury, Maryland headquarters via the Intercoastal Waterway.

Perry Aulie, president of Perdue AgriBusiness, emphasized the significance of this new addition, stating, "The Miss Madeline is more than just a barge — it's a symbol of our enduring commitment to sustainability and innovation. As we honor the legacy of Madeline Perdue, we're also embracing new logistics solutions that benefit both local agriculture and the environment."

The impact of this new transportation method is substantial. Each shipment on the "Miss Madeline" eliminates the need for 200 trucks on busy roadways in Virginia and Maryland. Perdue projects that the barge will eliminate more than 1.2 million truck miles driven annually, resulting in an estimated reduction of 1,475 metric tons of CO2 emissions.

Jim Perdue, Chairman of Perdue Farms, reflected on the personal significance of the vessel, saying, "My mom would be proud to see the ways our 104-year-old company keeps innovating. She loved Salisbury and the company, and naming this barge for her is a fitting tribute to her legacy."

The introduction of the "Miss Madeline" not only showcases Perdue's commitment to environmental stewardship but also demonstrates how innovative logistics solutions can significantly impact supply chain efficiency and sustainability in the agricultural sector. As the barge begins its regular operations, it sets a new standard for eco-friendly transportation in the industry, potentially inspiring similar initiatives across the agricultural supply chain.