Key Takeaways:
- Perdue AgriBusiness celebrates 25 years of operations at its Chesapeake, VA site.
- Facility is the only deepwater bulk grain terminal on the U.S. East Coast and one of two deepwater soy crush facilities in the U.S.
- Chesapeake handles grain from more than 1,300 Virginia farmers, representing over 45% of the state’s soybean crop.
- Recent investments include a new extractor, stevedoring operations, and multimodal transport enhancements.
- Site plays a key role in sustainability, providing crude oil for food-grade uses and renewable diesel production.
Chesapeake Facility’s Role in Perdue’s Network
Perdue AgriBusiness is celebrating 25 years of operations at its Chesapeake, Virginia facility, a cornerstone of the company’s grain, oilseed, and logistics network. Opened in 2000, the site has grown into a critical hub for U.S. agriculture, offering grain storage, a soybean crush plant, and multimodal connectivity via rail, barge, and container shipping.
Each year, the facility loads more than 100 vessels and 16,000 containers for export through the Port of Virginia. The site supports over 1,300 Virginia farmers, representing nearly half of the state’s soybean production, by providing reliable market access and economic opportunities.
Investments and Modernization
Recent upgrades have enhanced Chesapeake’s efficiency and export capacity. These include installation of a state-of-the-art extractor, the addition of in-house stevedoring, a new locomotive, and a liquid barge operation. Collectively, these investments position the facility to better serve both farmers and international buyers.
The Chesapeake operation is also integrated into Perdue’s sustainability efforts, supplying crude oil to Salisbury, Maryland, for refining into food-grade oils and renewable diesel. This supports the company’s goals of reducing carbon intensity across its supply chains and advancing its broader sustainability strategy.
Perdue’s Leadership and Community Recognition
“Reaching 25 years in Chesapeake is more than a milestone – it’s a testament to our values, innovation, and the strong partnerships we’ve built with farmers, associates, and community members along the way,” said Kevin McAdams, CEO of Perdue Farms. “This facility is proof of what can be achieved when we invest for the long term – not just in infrastructure, but in people and the future of food and agriculture.”
Congressman Bobby Scott (VA-03), who attended the celebration, highlighted the facility’s role in Virginia’s economy: “Agriculture is a cornerstone of Virginia’s economy, and the Port of Virginia enables our farmers to sell their goods around the world. Continued investment in local businesses strengthens Virginia’s economy and creates new opportunities across the Commonwealth.”
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