Cargill is consolidating its soybean processing operations in Iowa. Cargill spokesperson Mark Klein says the plan involves modernizing a Cedar Rapids soybean crushing plant.
He estimates the total investment at $60 million. Klein says overcapacity in plants producing soybean meal livestock feed is forcing Cargill’s consolidation — expanding Cedar Rapids, but closing a Des Moines soybean crushing plant on February 4.
“A total of 22 jobs will be eliminated in Des Moines,” Klein said. Cargill currently employs nearly 400 people in Cedar Rapids.
“In Cedar Rapids, the modernization project will not necessarily lead to an increase in jobs, but it will allow us to have a very efficient plant,” Klein said. Cargill, which is based in Minneapolis, will maintain some business activities and retain 70 employees at the facility in Des Moines.
Cargill also has soybean crushing plants in Iowa Falls and Sioux City.