USA – Bartlett, a Savage Company, has marked a significant milestone with the grand opening of its state-of-the-art soybean processing plant in Cherryvale, Kansas.
Founded in 1907, Bartlett has a long history in grain storage, transportation, and processing. Since joining the Savage family of companies in 2018, Bartlett has expanded its reach, becoming a leading exporter of grain to Mexico and a major player in renewable fuel production.
This facility is set to process up to 49 million bushels of soybeans annually, contributing to sustainable agriculture and renewable energy by producing refined vegetable oil, animal feed, and renewable transportation fuels.
At the opening ceremony, which drew notable figures like Kansas Governor Laura Kelly, Bartlett President Bob Knief emphasized the new plant’s impact on the local economy and soybean markets.
“We appreciate the tremendous work of everyone involved in the design, construction, and operation of this world-class facility, and the strong support from community members and officials,” Knief remarked.
He highlighted the creation of over 60 permanent jobs, along with the boost in economic activity spurred by the plant’s construction, which began in 2022.
The facility’s strategic location near major highways and its access to the South Kansas & Oklahoma Railroad, operated by WATCO, positions it as a key hub for both regional agribusinesses and the national supply chain.
“Our new Cherryvale plant will expand markets for area soybean producers while driving needed economic growth in Southeast Kansas,” Knief added.
Governor Laura Kelly lauded the plant’s role in providing local employment and contributing to the renewable energy sector.
“This impressive facility is far more than a soybean processing plant. It’s where community members will find good employment. It’s where the demand for renewable fuel will be met,” she said.
Supporting Sustainable Agriculture
Bartlett is not just focusing on economic development but also on sustainability. Partnering with Regrow Ag, the company is using Regrow’s Agriculture Resilience Platform to measure and manage emissions at the county level and track the adoption of regenerative farming practices in the region.
This platform will enable Bartlett to create actionable carbon reduction plans and offer insights into sustainable farming techniques, helping farmers reduce their environmental footprint while maintaining productivity.
Kirk Aubry, CEO of Savage, Bartlett’s parent company, emphasized the dual role of the plant in supporting food production and renewable energy.
“We’re excited that this plant will play dual roles in satisfying growing demand for feed and food, and also renewable energy. In addition to our new soybean processing plant in Kansas, we continue to develop sustainable solutions for farmers and food producers,” Aubry stated.
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