ADM and Planters Cotton Oil Mill form cottonseed processing joint venture

ADM and Planters Cotton Oil Mill, a cooperative cottonseed processor, will create a joint venture to combine their cottonseed operations in the US Mid-South. ADM will hold a 60% stake, including its Memphis, Tennessee, oil refinery, while crushing operations at the Memphis facility are expected to end. Planters will contribute its Pine Bluff, Arkansas, crush plant along with regional storage and origination assets.

The companies said the venture is intended to streamline operations and improve service for farmers, gins, and other customers. The standalone company will be governed by a board with equal representation from both partners, and the deal is expected to close in the first quarter of 2026.

“By uniting our expertise and facilities, we are strengthening our ability to deliver high-quality products while creating greater value for our members and customers,” said Cody Young, chief executive of Planters Cotton Oil Mill.

“ADM is continuing to refine its portfolio and ensure we have the right footprint to serve our stakeholders,” said Fred Serven, general manager of ADM’s cottonseed business.

ADM is a global agricultural processor providing human and animal nutrition products and operates a broad supply chain across multiple crops. Planters, founded in 1977 and headquartered in Pine Bluff, is a gin-owned cooperative that processes cottonseed into oil, meal, and hulls for domestic and international markets.