Layoffs at ADM's Peoria Plant, Product Emphasis Shifts (Updated)

TZPR 3000 switches the ADM Peoria plant's Alcohol Tracks on May 1, 2013. 

The good news is that it appears ADM is maintaining its Peoria plant for the long term. The bad news is that long-time employees are losing their jobs. The PJStar posted this article yesterday. 

I can't see too much changing in regard to rail service. Grain for production is trucked in from elevators in the region. ADM only gets corn by rail when local supplies are low. Rail delivered grain is almost all transferred to barges for export. Most tank cars loaded here seem to be placarded for industrial (UN 1170) and beverage alcohol (UN 3065) anyway. Actual production volume, not the type of grain alcohol produced there, will make the difference.

The Peoria plant is a strategic asset with river access. Layoffs are sad, but hopefully the change reflects a long-term commitment to keep the local plant operational for many years to come.

UPDATE (Aug. 3): Word is the end of domestic ethanol production at the Peoria plant has reduced production by half. Hopefully, ADM finds more markets for its beverage and industrial alcohol.. 

- David P. Jordan

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