Key facts
- Star of the West Milling Co. will build a new corn mill in Quincy, Michigan.
- The new facility will replace the company's former wheat flour mill at the same location.
- The project is expected to be completed in 2028.
- The corn mill will have a daily processing capacity of over 21,000 bushels.
- The company cited significant grain storage capacity and demand for food-grade corn products as drivers for the expansion.
- The location is expected to offer logistical advantages to customers in the northeastern US.
Star of the West Milling Co. has announced plans to construct a new corn mill in Quincy, Michigan, marking a strategic expansion into corn processing. The company will discontinue wheat flour milling at its Quincy facility, which is aged and has limited capacity, to focus on its expanded mill in Ligonier, Indiana.
The decision to build the corn mill is driven by the significant grain storage capacity at the Quincy site and growing demand for food-grade corn products. The new facility is designed to process over 21,000 bushels of corn daily and is expected to be completed in 2028. The project involves demolishing the existing mill and warehouse to build a six-story slipform structure, along with new feed storage, loadout facilities, and bulk truck and rail capabilities.
Jim Howe, CEO of Star of the West, stated that the project aligns with the company's goal of feeding the world through partnerships with producers and food processors, emphasizing diversity and vertical integration within the agricultural sector. Mike Fassezke, president of the flour milling division, highlighted the strategic opportunity to leverage existing milling expertise and serve a customer base that already purchases corn-based ingredients. He also noted the potential to add value to the large volume of corn received from local farmers.
Karina Spencer, executive vice president of the flour milling division, pointed out the logistical advantage of the Quincy location, as most US dry corn mills are situated west or south of their target market. The new mill will utilize state-of-the-art technology to ensure food safety and product quality. Several contractors and equipment suppliers have been named for the project, including Todd & Sargent, Sangati Berga, and Kice Industries.