Richardson International has announced a significant investment into its canola crush plant at Yorkton, Sask. The expansion will double processing capacity to 2.2 million metric tonnes per year, and include updates to existing infrastructure.
When finished, the upgrades will include a high-speed shipping system with three 9,500-foot loop tracks, served by both major railways, and dedicated to moving canola crush products at some of the most efficient levels seen in North America, the company says. The facility will also have three high-speed receiving lanes for canola delivery.
“The global outlook for Canadian canola oil is promising, and this latest investment emphasizes our ongoing commitment to best in class facilities,” says Darrell Sobkow, senior vice president for processing, food, and ingredients. “Yorkton lies right in the heart of canola country and we are focused on providing our producer customers with increasingly efficient means for meeting the needs of a growing global consumptive market.”
Construction will begin immediately with no disruption to current operations, and providing significant opportunities for employment both during and after construction, Richardson says.
The upgrades are expected to be completed by early 2024.
Richardson also invested $120 million into their Lethbridge, Alta., crush plant for similar efficiency, modernization, and automation upgrades.