July 14, 2010

UK co-op expands grain storage facility

Lincolnshire co-op Woldgrain has opened the first phase of its GBP4-million (US$6.1-million) grain storage and intake facility near Gainsborough, England.

The additions include extra 18,000 tonnes of combinable crop storage bins, a 500-tonne/hour intake system and increased grain drying capacity. Once complete next year, the site will have a storage capacity of over 50,000 tonnes.

The development benefitted from a GBP1.5-million (US$2.3-million) Rural Development grant, provided through the East Midlands Development Agency.

"With the support of Openfield, we have been able to position Woldgrain within a wider national network of grain stores that meet consumer needs," Woldgrain chairman Richard Milligan-Manby said.

"We believe this partnership is bringing real benefits to farmers in the region, helping them add significant value to their crops and improve their bottom line."