Grain Milling Industry Overview

Excerpt from Grain Milling Report

Companies in this industry mill flour and rice; malt grains (primarily barley); and mix prepared flour mixes and dough. Major US companies include Archer Daniels Midland (ADM), Cargill, ConAgra, General Mills, and Riceland Foods.

Competitive Landscape

Demand is driven by population growth and consumer patterns in bread, whole grains, and rice consumption. The profitability of individual companies depends on managing grain prices and inventory effectively, and minimizing the risk of rodents, insects, and molds. Large companies have advantages in advanced milling technology and a diversified product line. Small operations can compete effectively by specializing in organic, non-genetically modified, or heirloom grains. The industry is highly concentrated: the top 50 companies account for about 90 percent of industry revenue.

Products, Operations & Technology

Major products include flour (75 percent of industry revenue); rice (20 percent); and malt manufacturing (5 percent). Other products include corn and wheat.