USA – The North Dakota Mill, the only state-owned mill in the United States, reported record profits of US$20.7 million for fiscal year 2024, marking a 21% increase from the previous year.
The impressive results come as the facility, which is the largest flour mill in the country, benefits from its 2022 expansion.
Following the addition of a 6,000-cwt durum unit and a 4,000-cwt spring wheat unit, the mill now boasts a daily milling capacity of 60,500 hundredweight (cwt).
Members of the Industrial Commission of North Dakota, which oversees the mill, praised the expansion’s impact, noting a record shipment volume of 17.5 million cwts.
“The state’s capital investments into two new milling units have resulted in record shipment volume,” they said. “We are grateful for the hard work of the outstanding team at the mill that resulted in new records in grain purchases, gross sales, product shipments, and profits, all achieved with an exceptional safety record.”
Vance Taylor, President and CEO of North Dakota Mill, highlighted a 10% increase in overall shipment volumes and a remarkable 95% increase in shipments of the mill’s Dakota Maid flour brand.
Taylor attributed these gains to renewed consumer interest in home baking and a strong demand from the restaurant industry.
“Our dedicated employees stayed focused on providing consistent quality products delivered with a high level of customer service,” Taylor stated.
In line with its mandate, the mill transferred 52.5% of its profits — US$9,877,704 — to North Dakota’s general fund, while US$1,039,758 was allocated to the agricultural product utilization fund. The remaining profits will be reinvested into mill operations to support future growth and innovation.
The record performance reflects a broader trend in the grain milling industry, as rising demand for wheat-based products and a renewed focus on food security drive investments in milling capacity.
Other mills in the U.S. are also considering expansions, following North Dakota Mill’s example, to capitalize on growing market opportunities.
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