MEXICO – Bunge North America has opened a new wheat milling facility in Del Mayab, Mexico, expanding its reach to customers in Southeast Mexico who account for about 10% of Mexico’s population, reported World Grain.

Bunge said the facility’s proximity to the nearby port, Puerto Progresso enhance efficient wheat delivery from the port for processing while flour from it can be easily exported to other Latin American markets.

The mill will produce flour for both large food companies and small bakeries throughout the states of Yucatan, Campeche, Quintana Roo, Chiapas and Tabasco.

The facility incorporates state-of-the-art technology for improved yields, product quality and reduces energy consumption engineered to ensure high productivity, quality, safety and best environmental performance.

“This expansion of our footprint ensures that Bunge can continue to meet the needs of our customers with a reliable supply chain and the ability to produce high quality ingredients at a competitive cost,” said Daniel Maldonado, managing director, Mexico.

“The location and design of this mill allow us to create a world-class operation with a strong local presence.”

The wheat mill, the eighth in Mexico will employ around 50 people at the production site while generating additional economic benefits for the region.

“Through our network of wheat mills in Mexico, Bunge has built a reputation for providing high quality products at competitive prices,” said Jennifer Uribe, commercial director.

“We look forward to providing bakers and families in this region a high level of service and flours that produce breads that are richer, softer and fluffier — the trademarks of our brands, including Espiga, Escudo Plus and Villa Rica.”

The facility adds to number of operations Bunge North America and its subsidiaries own including grain elevators, oilseed processing plants, edible oil refineries and packaging facilities, and corn, wheat and rice mills in the U.S., Canada and Mexico.