Miller Magazine Issue 137 May 2021

34 MILLER / may 2021 NEWS Richardson International Limited announced a significant investment in their Bedford, England oat mill to expand the facility and increase capacity by upwards of 35%. This latest investment will improve upon all operational aspects of the plant, from intake and warehousing capabilities to logistics and distribution. A full overhaul of the site footprint will result in greater op- erational efficiencies, modernization, and enhanced storage capacity. When completed, the Bedford mill will boast a high- speed receiving system, providing a fast and effective means for inbound oats delivery. Extensive modernization of the plant will significantly increase storage capacity and ensure effi- ciencies in production and processing capabilities. In addition, the site will include a new expanded warehouse to allow for improved transportation and logistical functions. Construction will begin later this spring with no anticipated disruption to cur- rent operations and is expected to be completed in 2025. These specifics and other features of the multi-phase project will allow the plant to rapidly meet an ever-growing demand for oats and oat-based products. “The global oats segment is thriving as shifting consumer behaviours drive market growth,” said Benoit Soucy (Vice-President, Milling Operations, Richardson International). “A significant invest- ment such as this will enable us to fulfill the incremental demand of our customers as we continue to efficiently meet current requirements and anticipate their evolving needs.” Now, more than ever, consumers worldwide look to qual- ity plant-based products when making their purchasing de- cisions. Located in the heart of the country’s key growing region, the Bedford mill occupies a geographic position in- tegral to meeting the needs of these informed consumers, both domestically and abroad. “The growth demand for our oat products has consistently increased through the years and we are committed to taking the business to a higher level,” said Carl Smith (Plant Director, Bedford). “As a world class oat milling operation, we are incredibly excited by our new plans. Consumer interest in healthy oat products continues to grow and we see this as a great op- portunity to supply existing and new customers with quality oat products,” added David Jordan (Board Director, Rich- ardson Milling U.K.). “The outlook is positive for all industry participants – from the farming community and our facility staff to our suppliers and valued customers.” Richardson International Limited is Canada’s largest agri- business and is recognized as a global leader in agriculture and food processing. Richardson is a worldwide handler and merchandiser of all major Canadian-grown grains and oilseeds and a vertically-integrated processor and manu- facturer of oats and canola-based products. Over the past two decades, Richardson has become a significant player in the global food business, producing a wide variety of food products and ingredients for the retail, food service, and industrial markets. Richardson has over 2,900 employ- ees across Canada, the U.S., and the U.K. Richardson to increase UK oat mill capacity