Pune, India | September 18, 2025
Archer Daniels Midland (ADM), a global leader in nutrition, recently announced a major restructuring of its soy protein production network. Specifically, the company will shut down its Bushnell, Illinois, facility and move operations to the upgraded Decatur East plant and other key sites. This step directly supports ADM’s goal to simplify operations, improve efficiency, and increase profitability.
Moreover, ADM said the decision will optimize its global manufacturing footprint. This streamlined approach will create a faster and more cost-effective network. With demand for plant-based proteins growing worldwide, the company plans to expand operations to meet rising needs. Therefore, the Bushnell closure will happen gradually to avoid disruptions for customers and supply partners.
In addition, ADM has invested heavily in the Decatur East site, which will now serve as the main hub for soy protein production. The location, equipped with modern technology and greater capacity, will strengthen supply reliability and expand output.
Ian Pinner, President of ADM’s Nutrition business, said the shift matches ADM’s long-term vision for growth. “We are evolving to serve global customers better, while building a stronger soy protein platform,” he noted.
Although the Bushnell plant has a long history, it no longer meets operational standards. Consequently, closing it marks an essential step in ADM’s transition toward modern and efficient production. Over the past years, ADM has focused on innovation in plant-based proteins, and this change continues that strategy.
Furthermore, ADM pledged to handle the closure responsibly. Employees will receive support, including redeployment opportunities, during the transition. While the company did not share job numbers, it promised fairness and respect throughout the process.
For customers, ADM guaranteed stability by moving Bushnell’s product lines to other facilities. It confirmed that quality and service levels will remain intact. Additionally, the company restated its commitment to trust and strong business relationships.
This move also reflects wider trends in the food industry, where rising consumer demand for plant-based diets drives companies to adapt. Competitors are similarly reducing costs while boosting capacity and innovation, mirroring ADM’s approach.
Still, challenges exist. ADM highlighted risks tied to fluctuating demand, energy prices, supply availability, regulations, and potential disruptions like weather-related outages. Therefore, analysts will watch closely how ADM manages the transition, the timing of the Bushnell closure, and the performance of Decatur East.
Over time, ADM aims to strengthen its leadership in plant-based proteins through modern facilities and efficient operations. Its plan targets profitability, scalability, and ongoing innovation.
In conclusion, ADM sees this restructuring as a key step toward sustainable growth. By focusing on advanced capabilities and streamlined systems, it intends to deliver reliable, high-quality ingredients to global food and beverage producers while staying competitive in a fast-growing market.
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