PORTLAND, Ore. — Supply chain challenges continue to impact business growth for U.S. food retailers. According to a survey from the Food Industry Association in the second quarter of 2022, 70% of retailers reported that supply chain turmoil is continuing within their businesses.
With a mission to nourish the world safely, Columbia Grain International has broadened its footprint across the supply chain, streamlining its operations as a sustainable and traceable vertically integrated supplier option for packaged Dry Beans and Pulses for the retail segment. The opening of its new, 60,000-sq-ft. packaging facility, equipped with fully automated systems, enables CGI to service the retail industry with peak efficiency, scalability, reliability and expertise. Their 40-year history of working with multigenerational bean and pulse producers ensures a premium, consistent product.
“As CGI sources beans and pulses straight from our network of American farmers we’re now able to provide custom retail packages without compromising quality, supply, or safety,” said CGI Manager of Retail Products, Bill Germano. “And our new facility in Hastings, Nebraska will enable us to efficiently supply grocery retailers throughout the U.S.”
CGI’s new SQF certified facility is fully automated with critical control points to manage packaging and product quality and is capable of processing a wide range of package options. “Our intent is to provide a premier custom-packing service and innovation resource for grocery retailers own brands,” said Germano. “And in addition will be used to produce our own innovative CGI brand, Balanced Bushel, planned for an early 2023 market launch.”
Columbia Grain International supplies premium quality bean and pulse products to major U.S. food manufacturers as well as packages to the retail trade and is a member of the Private Label Manufacturers Association.
