USA – Ardent Mills has announced that it has acquired a grain elevator in Klamath Falls, Oregon, expanding its capabilities in organic and specialty grains in the market.
The investment whose financial details were not disclosed, was made through The Annex by Ardent Mills, a business unit of Ardent Mills that is cultivating the future of specialty grains and plant-based ingredients.
According to the company, the elevator which is located near its community mill in Stockton, California and mix plant in Arlington, Oregon, enhances the company’s ability to support growers in the Pacific Northwest, partner with universities on breeding, and serve its overall customer base.
“This acquisition enhances Ardent Mills’ ability to source grains from organic and conventional family farms in the region,” said Dan Dye, CEO of Ardent Mills.
“It gives us the opportunity to become the trusted partner for these growers, which is a key component of Ardent Mills’ vision.
The deal further expands The Annex’s capabilities in innovations using ancient & heirloom grains, organic grains and flours, sprouted wheat, and chickpeas.
To support its expansion in the US, The Annex formed a new partnership with Colorado Quinoa, LLC to clean, mill and market quinoa grown in Colorado’s San Luis Valley.
The partnership aims to provide an exceptional supplement or alternative to imported white quinoa, while increasing opportunities for domestic growth, selling and consumption.
“The location of the Klamath Falls elevator and our long-standing relationships with farmers in the surrounding area support our core business and open up specialty opportunities in the world of grain,” said Shrene White, general manager of The Annex.
“This is an exciting addition to our network of facilities and further drives our extensive grower network, public-private partnerships and commitment to innovation.”
In May, Ardent Mills expanded its specialty grains capabilities at Denver Mill in the US.
In addition to flour milling, the company will clean and pack intact grains, pearl barley and dehull heirloom grains like emmer, einkorn and spelt.
The Denver Mill will produce and clean organic and non-bioengineered/non-GMO grains and sell them nationwide.
