Bunge North America, the North American operating arm of Bunge Ltd., announced that it has opened its new wheat mill in the southeast region of Mexico.

The Del Mayab mill is located 20 km from Puerto Progresso -- a strategic location for serving key customers in southeast Mexico. This site provides logistical advantages since wheat brought in through the nearby port can easily be delivered to the mill, and the flour produced can be efficiently exported to other countries in Latin America, according to the announcement.

The Del Mayab mill will serve the states of Yucatan, Campeche, Quintana Roo, Chiapas and Tabasco, Mexico. This region is home to 10% of Mexico's population and is growing faster than any other area of the country.

The facility will sell flours in bulk and in bags to serve both large food companies and small bakeries. It employs nearly 50 workers and generates additional economic benefits for the region.

"This expansion of our footprint ensures that Bunge can continue to meet the needs of our customers with a reliable supply chain and the ability to produce high-quality ingredients at a competitive cost," said Daniel Maldonado, Bunge managing director, Mexico. "The location and design of this mill allow us to create a world-class operation with a strong local presence."

The facility was engineered for enhanced productivity, quality, safety and environmental performance, the announcement said. Its state-of-the-art technology will improve yields, ensure product quality and reduce energy consumption.

"Through our network of wheat mills in Mexico, Bunge has built a reputation for providing high-quality products at competitive prices," Jennifer Uribe, commercial director, said. "We look forward to providing bakers and families in this region a high level of service and flours that produce breads that are richer, softer and fluffier — the trademarks of our brands, including Espiga, Escudo Plus and Villa Rica."

Bunge North America is a vertically integrated food and feed ingredient company that supplies raw and processed agricultural commodities and specialized food ingredients to a wide range of customers in the animal feed, food processor, foodservice and bakery industries.

With headquarters in St. Louis, Mo., Bunge North America and its subsidiaries operate grain elevators, oilseed processing plants, edible oil refineries and packaging facilities as well as corn, wheat and rice mills in the U.S., Canada and Mexico.