Pune, India | September 18, 2025
Archer Daniels Midland (ADM), a global leader in human and animal nutrition, has announced a major reorganization of its soy protein production network. The company plans to shut down its Bushnell, Illinois, facility. At the same time, it will consolidate operations at the upgraded Decatur East plant and other strategic locations. This move supports ADM’s ongoing goal to simplify operations, improve efficiency, and increase profitability.
ADM explained that the restructuring will optimize its global manufacturing footprint. By building a leaner and more agile production network, the company aims to respond more effectively to rising global demand for plant-based proteins. Therefore, ADM will gradually phase out the Bushnell site to minimize disruptions to customers and supply chains.
Moreover, ADM has already invested significantly in modernizing the Decatur East facility. The site now includes advanced equipment, improved efficiency, and greater production capacity. As a result, ADM expects the plant to strengthen its supply chain and help boost margins.
Ian Pinner, President of ADM’s Nutrition business, described the move as part of the company’s ongoing evolution. “We’re reshaping our business to better meet global customer needs,” he said. “This positions us with a more robust and competitive soy protein platform.”
Although the Bushnell plant has served the company for many years, ADM believes it no longer meets current operational standards. Consequently, the company sees the shift away from outdated infrastructure as essential to long-term growth. In recent years, ADM has consistently invested in plant-based protein innovation and quality. Therefore, this transition represents a natural next step in its strategic journey.
In addition, ADM emphasized its commitment to handling the closure responsibly. While it has not revealed the exact number of jobs affected, the company plans to provide redeployment opportunities and transition assistance to impacted employees.
From the customer’s perspective, ADM pledged a smooth transition. It will transfer product lines from Bushnell to other facilities in its network. Importantly, it will maintain high standards of product quality and service. ADM also reaffirmed its focus on reliability and long-term customer relationships.
This decision reflects broader industry trends. As plant-based diets become more popular, companies must adapt quickly to meet changing consumer expectations. ADM’s restructuring mirrors actions taken by other major players aiming to cut costs, expand capabilities, and drive innovation.
However, ADM acknowledged several risks associated with this shift. The company cited uncertainties such as fluctuating market demand, raw material availability, energy costs, and changing regulations. Additionally, operational challenges like plant outages and severe weather may also affect outcomes.
Industry analysts will closely monitor ADM’s next steps. Key areas of focus include the timeline for the Bushnell closure, ADM’s ability to maintain service quality, and its approach to workforce transition. Furthermore, the performance of the upgraded Decatur East facility will serve as a critical measure of success.
Looking ahead, ADM aims to strengthen its leadership position in the plant-based protein sector. By investing in modern facilities and retiring aging infrastructure, the company expects to improve both efficiency and profitability. ADM also plans to continue innovating in alternative proteins to support sustainable and scalable growth.
With global demand rising, ADM stands ready to meet the needs of food and beverage manufacturers worldwide. It remains committed to delivering high-quality, consistent ingredients that support its customers’ growth.
To conclude, ADM’s decision to close the Bushnell plant and streamline its soy protein operations marks a significant step toward greater efficiency and future-readiness. Through strategic investment and focused execution, ADM is laying a solid foundation for long-term success in a competitive global market.
