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Last Updated:
2024-09-22 08:21:10

Cargill

American global food corporation founded in 1865
American global food corporation founded in 1865

Cargill, Incorporated, based in Minnesota, is the largest privately held company in the US. It operates in grain trading, energy, livestock, financial services, and food production. With revenues of $165 billion in 2022, it employs over 160,000 people worldwide.

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1865
Foundation of Cargill

Cargill is a global corporation that was founded in 1865. It plays a crucial role in the global food supply chain by providing essential products and services.

1870
Erection of First Elevator by W. W. Cargill

In 1870, W. W. Cargill erected his first elevator and established headquarters in Albert Lea, Minnesota. This expansion marked a significant step in the growth of the company.

1875
W. W. Cargill moves headquarters to La Crosse, Wisconsin

In 1875, W. W. Cargill relocates the Cargill family and headquarters to La Crosse, Wisconsin, which was a regional commerce hub. This move signifies the company's expansion and growth in the industry.

1881
W. W. Cargill & Bro. terminal elevator established in La Crosse, Wisconsin

In 1881, the W. W. Cargill & Bro. terminal elevator is established in La Crosse, Wisconsin. This terminal elevator played a significant role in the company's operations and expansion during that period.

1882
Cargill Sells Red River Valley Grain Elevators

In 1882, Cargill sold their Red River Valley grain elevators to raise more capital, showcasing strategic business decisions in the company's history.

1885
Cargill expands with 102 structures

By 1885, Cargill, led by W. W. Cargill and his brothers, has expanded significantly with 102 structures across Wisconsin, Minnesota, Iowa, and the Dakotas. This expansion showcases the company's rapid growth and presence in the region.

1887
Sam Cargill manages office in Minneapolis

In 1887, Sam Cargill left La Crosse to manage the office in Minneapolis, which was an important emerging grain center.

1895
Cargill Family Connections

In 1895, William W. Cargill's daughter married John Hugh MacMillan, leading to family ties that influenced the company's leadership and direction.

1898
John H. MacMillan Sr. and his brother begin working for W. W. Cargill

In 1898, John H. MacMillan Sr. and his brother started working for W. W. Cargill. Later, John MacMillan married William Cargill's eldest daughter, Edna.

1900
Expansion of Cargill's Business Operations

By the turn of the century, Cargill expanded its operations to handle coal, flour, feed, lumber, and seeds, and invested in railroads, land, water irrigation, and farms, increasing its reach and scale.

1903
Sam Cargill passes away

In 1903, Sam Cargill, a key figure in the leadership of Cargill Elevator Company, dies. His death creates a leadership vacuum, leading to an increased role for John MacMillan, Sr.

1905
W. W. Cargill buys Elevator T in Minneapolis

In 1905, W. W. Cargill purchases Elevator T in Minneapolis, Minnesota, transforming it from a small storage facility into a significant Midwest terminal elevator. This strategic acquisition enhances Cargill's presence in the region.

1909
W. W. Cargill passes away

In 1909, W. W. Cargill, the founder of Cargill Elevator Company, passes away at the age of 64. His death marks a significant transition in the leadership of the company.

1910
Consolidation of Cargill Elevator Company

John MacMillan, Sr., consolidates operations under the Cargill Elevator Company in 1910, emphasizing the company's focus on trading and processing grain. He successfully repays debts and leads Cargill back to prosperity.

1918
John H. MacMillan, Jr. and Austen Cargill Serve in World War I

During World War I in 1918, Major John H. MacMillan, Jr., and Austen Cargill serve in the armed forces, while John MacMillan, Sr., ensures record profits for Cargill and establishes the company as a prominent grain trader in the U.S.

1920
Financial crash leads to Cargill Elevator's first annual loss

The financial crash in late 1920 resulted in Cargill Elevator experiencing its first annual loss in history, highlighting the challenges faced during that period.

1922
Acquisition of a competitor by Cargill Elevator

In 1922, Cargill Elevator acquired a competitor, Taylor & Bournique, known for its private wire system that enabled instant messaging among employees, showcasing Cargill's focus on innovation and competitiveness.

1923
Cargill acquires Taylor & Bournique and its teletype machine

In 1923, Cargill acquired Taylor & Bournique along with its teletype machine, enabling employees to send messages almost instantly, giving them a competitive edge.

1924
Cargill leases the 1.5-bushel Superior elevator in Buffalo, New York

In 1924, Cargill leased the 1.5-bushel Superior elevator in Buffalo, New York, as part of its expansion efforts, showcasing its commitment to growth and innovation.

1928
Cargill opens first Canadian operations in Montreal

Cargill opened its first Canadian operations in Montreal in 1928 as Cargill Grain Company Ltd., headquartered in Winnipeg.

1932
John H. MacMillan, Jr. Assumes Presidency

In 1932, John H. MacMillan, Jr. takes over the leadership of the company from his father due to health issues.

1934
Feud with Chicago Board of Trade

In 1934, the Chicago Board of Trade denied membership to Cargill, leading to a decades-long feud. The US government intervened and forced the Board to accept Cargill as a member.

1936
Formation of Cargill, Incorporated

In 1936, Cargill Elevator and other Cargill firms merged to form Cargill, Incorporated, marking a significant milestone in the company's organizational structure.

1938
Suspension by Chicago Board of Trade

In 1938, the Chicago Board of Trade suspended Cargill and three of its officers from the trading floor, accusing them of trying to corner the corn market. Cargill chose to trade through independent traders instead of rejoining later.

1939
Commencement of Blue Square Feed manufacturing in Lennox, South Dakota

In 1939, Cargill started manufacturing Blue Square Feed in Lennox, South Dakota, marking a significant step in its product diversification and expansion into the feed industry.

1940
U.S. navy selects Cargill for building tankers and towboats

Cargill is chosen by the U.S. navy to construct ocean-going tankers and towboats to aid the Allied war effort in Europe post the closure of its European and Argentinian offices.

1942
Cargill Selected to Build Tankers and Towboats for Allied War Effort

The U.S. military selects Cargill in 1942 to build tankers and towboats to support the Allied war effort in Europe. The shipbuilding crew is shown at Port Cargill, Savage, Minnesota, circa 1943.

1943
USS Agawam Built at Port Cargill

The USS Agawam, an Auxiliary Oil and Gas (AOG) tanker built at Port Cargill, travels on the Minnesota River under the Mendota Bridge in St. Paul, Minnesota, with several men on a small watercraft guiding the ship while a crowd of onlookers stand on the bridge above, in 1943.

1945
Cargill Shipbuilding Division Receives Army-Navy E Award

Austen Cargill receives the E Award Flag from the U.S. Navy Air Station in Minneapolis in 1945. The Cargill Shipbuilding Division was awarded the Army-Navy E Award for excellence in production and contributions to the war effort.

1950
Cargill opens trading offices in Europe

During the 1950s, Cargill expands its presence by establishing trading offices in Europe, including Belgium in 1953, to strengthen its global trade operations.

1953
Formation of Tradax in Europe

In 1953, Cargill established Tradax, a Swiss subsidiary, to sell grain in Europe, expanding its international presence and market reach.

1958
Cargill donates to CARE's Food Crusade instead of sending Christmas cards

In 1958, Cargill decided to contribute to CARE's Food Crusade as a gesture of goodwill towards its employees, initiating a long-standing partnership with the organization.

1960
Erwin Kelm becomes the first non-family-member president of Cargill

In 1960, Erwin Kelm made history by becoming the first non-family-member president of Cargill, marking a significant milestone in the company's leadership.

1962
Rejoining Chicago Board of Trade

In 1962, Cargill rejoined the Chicago Board of Trade, two years after the death of MacMillan. This marked a significant event in the company's history.

1965
Celebration of Cargill's 100th anniversary in Kansas City, Missouri

In 1965, Cargill commemorated its 100th anniversary with a special event held in Kansas City, Missouri, reflecting on a century of growth and success.

1966
Cargill adopts a new 'C' logo

In 1966, Cargill introduced a new 'C' logo, symbolizing a fresh identity and branding for the company during that period.

1967
Expansion into Wet Corn Milling

In 1967, Cargill expanded into wet corn milling through the purchase of a mill in Cedar Rapids, Iowa, showcasing the company's diversification into new sectors.

1971
Cargill's Mercury-Treated Seed Scandal in Iraq

In 1971, Cargill sold fumigated seed grain treated with a methylmercury-based fungicide to Iraq at the request of Saddam Hussein. The contaminated grain, intended for planting and not consumption, led to over 650 deaths due to mercury poisoning when consumed by unaware individuals.

1973
Shindi Mahal tests sulphur dioxide content of corn syrup

In 1973, Shindi Mahal, a lab technician, conducts tests on the sulphur dioxide content of corn syrup at a corn milling plant in Dayton, Ohio.

1974
Acquisitions in Turkey Processing and Steel Industry

In 1974, Cargill made significant acquisitions in Ralston Purina's turkey processing division and North Star Steel Company, expanding its presence in different industries.

1977
Whitney MacMillan becomes president of Cargill

In 1977, Whitney MacMillan, W. W. Cargill’s great-grandson, takes over as president of Cargill after Erwin Kelm's retirement. He is the last family member to hold the position of CEO.

1978
Purchase of Leslie Salt Company

In 1978, Cargill acquired the Leslie Salt refining company in Newark, California from Schilling, expanding its operations into the salt refining industry.

1979
Cargill enters meat-processing business

In 1979, Cargill acquired beef processor MBPXL, later known as Excel, marking its entry into the meat-processing business. The division expanded into turkey, food service, and food distribution.

1980
Cargill's Commitment to Sustainable Practices

During the 1980s, Cargill deepens its commitment to sustainability by partnering with Dr. Temple Grandin to improve the treatment of animals in beef supply chains and sets new industry standards. Additionally, Cargill collaborates with The Nature Conservancy to enhance environmental stewardship and establishes its first Environmental Policy and Corporate Environmental Affairs Office.

1981
Cargill enters cotton merchandising

In 1981, Cargill ventures into cotton merchandising, expanding its portfolio to include the grading of cotton.

1982
Cargill reenters flour milling

In 1982, Cargill reintroduces flour milling into its portfolio. Danny Hudgens is seen loading a pallet of flour in Shawnee Mission, Kansas.

1984
Cargill begins operations in Pakistan

Cargill started its business operations in Pakistan in 1984. Over the years, the company has expanded its presence in Pakistan's agricultural and food industries.

1986
Cargill starts operations in Venezuela

In 1986, Cargill formed Agroindustrial Mimesa in Maracaibo, Venezuela, through a partnership with the Possenti family's Mimesa C.A. The company focused on manufacturing flour and pasta, leading to further expansion.

1987
Cargill establishes Cargill Foods India

Starting operations in 1987, Cargill established Cargill Foods India, a business unit that processes, refines, and markets a wide range of edible oils and fats. The unit caters to the food industry with various well-known brands.

1990
Acquisition of Akzo Salt by Cargill

Around 1990, Cargill acquires Akzo Salt, becoming one of the largest salt production and marketing companies globally, as illustrated by the St. Clair salt plant image from the 1990s.

1992
Cargill: Trading the World's Grain

The book 'Cargill: Trading the World's Grain' by Wayne G. Jr. Broehl, published in 1992, delves into the history and operations of Cargill, a major player in the global grain trade. It provides insights into the company's strategies and impact on the agricultural industry.

1993
Cargill responds to demands for IPO

In response to demands for an initial public offering from private shareholders in the early 1990s, Cargill implemented an employee stock ownership plan. The company purchased 17% of the firm for $730 million and reorganized its board of directors.

1995-08
Ernest Micek becomes CEO of Cargill

Ernest Micek took over as chief executive of Cargill in August 1995. Under his leadership, the company faced financial challenges due to global economic crises.

1997
Cargill acquires Akzo Salt, becoming one of the largest salt production and marketing companies

In 1997, Cargill acquired Akzo Salt, propelling it to become one of the leading salt production and marketing companies globally.

1998
Innovative Ship Unloading Port by Cargill in Rozy, India

In 1998, Cargill completes the construction of an innovative ship unloading and floating port outside Rozy, India, showcasing the company's commitment to efficient logistics and operations.

1999
Warren Staley becomes CEO and president of Cargill

In 1999, Warren Staley assumed the roles of both CEO and president at Cargill, taking over leadership responsibilities.

2000
Listeria Outbreak in Cargill Processing Plant

In 2000, a listeria outbreak in a Cargill processing plant in Texas resulted in seven deaths, 29 illnesses, and three stillbirths or miscarriages. The outbreak was linked to sliced turkey from the plant.

2001
Acquisition of Agribrands International by Cargill

In 2001, Cargill acquired feed producer Agribrands International as part of its strategic acquisitions.

2002
Cargill acquires Cerestar

In 2002, Cargill acquired European-based starch manufacturer Cerestar from Montedison for $1.1 billion. This acquisition expanded Cargill's presence in the European market.

2003
Earnings Surpass $US 1 Billion for Cargill

In 2003, Cargill's earnings surpassed $US 1 billion for the first time.

2005
Child trafficking lawsuit against Cargill

In 2005, the International Labor Rights Fund filed a lawsuit against Cargill, Nestlé, and Archer Daniels Midland for child trafficking and forced labor on cocoa bean plantations in Côte d'Ivoire.

2006
Cargill Agrees to Soya Moratorium in the Amazon

In 2006, Cargill and other major soya buyers, in response to a Greenpeace campaign, agreed not to trade in soybeans grown in newly deforested areas of the Amazon. This initiative, known as the 'soya moratorium,' led to a significant drop in Amazon deforestation and was considered a major success.

2007-06-01
CEO Succession from Staley to Gregory R. Page

On June 1, 2007, CEO Staley was succeeded by Gregory R. Page, marking a leadership transition at Cargill.

2008-02-29
Cargill's Quarterly Profits Exceed $1 Billion

During the quarter ending on February 29, 2008, Cargill's quarterly profits exceeded $1 billion for the first time. This significant rise was attributed to global food shortages and the expanding biofuels industry.

2009-03
Cargill Australia's E. coli Export Suspension

In March 2009, Cargill Australia faced a temporary suspension of its meat export license to Japan and the US by AQIS after E. coli was detected in export containers. The suspension was lifted in late April 2009 after corrective measures were taken.

2010
Cargill's Smallholders at PT Hindoli Certified under RSPO's Smallholder Principles & Criteria

At the 8th Annual Roundtable on Sustainable Palm Oil meeting in 2010, smallholders at Cargill’s palm plantation, PT Hindoli, become the first to be certified under the RSPO’s Smallholder Principles & Criteria.

2011-08
Cargill's Ground Turkey Salmonella Recall

In August 2011, Cargill and USDA recalled 36 million pounds of ground turkey produced at Cargill's Arkansas plant due to salmonella fears. The recall was prompted by antibiotic-resistant salmonella contamination, resulting in one death and multiple illnesses across 26 states.

2011-09
Cargill's Second Ground Turkey Recall

In September 2011, Cargill issued a second immediate recall of 185,000 pounds of fresh-ground turkey products from its Arkansas facility due to possible Salmonella Heidelberg contamination. The recall aimed to prevent potential health risks to consumers.

2011-10
Biotech Specialist Pleads Guilty to Stealing Information

In October 2011, a biotech specialist at Cargill pleaded guilty to stealing information from Cargill and Dow AgroSciences, leading to a case of industrial espionage.

2011-11
Acquisition of Provimi

In November 2011, Cargill completed the acquisition of Provimi, a global animal nutrition company, expanding its presence in the animal feed industry.

2012-04-01
Purchase of Cat and Dog Food Plant in Emporia, Kansas

On April 1, 2012, Cargill completed the purchase of a cat and dog food plant in Emporia, Kansas, previously owned by American Nutrition, diversifying its product portfolio.

2013-12
CEO Succession from Gregory R. Page to Dave MacLennan

In December 2013, CEO and chairman Page was succeeded by current CEO Dave MacLennan, marking another leadership change at Cargill.

2014-12
Commissioning of Indonesian Cocoa Plant

In December 2014, Cargill finished commissioning a $100 million Indonesian cocoa plant, expanding its operations in the cocoa industry.

2015-08
Bulk tanker loading at Cargill's soybean terminal in Santarem, Brazil

In August 2015, a bulk tanker loaded up at Cargill's soybean terminal in Santarem, Brazil. This event showcases Cargill's significant presence in the global food industry.

2016
Cargill operates in 70 countries

As of 2016, Cargill operates in 70 countries across six regions worldwide. The company has a significant global presence with operations in various countries.

2017
Illegal Deforestation in Ivory Coast Linked to Cargill

In 2017, a report revealed that cocoa purchased by Cargill had been grown in illegally deforested protected areas in Ivory Coast. Despite Cargill's pledge to end sourcing from national parks and restore forests, deforestation continued in many places.

2018-02
Cargill Purchase of Pro Pet

In February 2018, Cargill acquired Pro Pet, a pet food manufacturing company with three facilities in Minnesota, Kansas, and Ohio.

2019-01-25
Cargill announces $200 million investment in Pakistan

In January 2019, Cargill announced a significant $200 million investment to enhance its business operations in Pakistan. This investment aimed to support the company's growth in the region.

2019-09-16
Cargill's Operations on the Tapajos River in Brazil

Cargill's operations in the Amazon state of Pará, including the construction of a large port on the Tapajós River for shipping soya, have raised concerns over local land disputes and pressure on indigenous territories.

2020-04-08
Cargill Closure of Hazleton Meatpacking Facility

On April 8, 2020, Cargill shut down its Hazleton meatpacking plant due to COVID-19 cases among employees. The county had a high number of confirmed cases.

2020-04-20
Cargill Closure of High River Plant

Cargill temporarily closed its High River plant in Alberta in April 2020 after being linked to numerous COVID-19 cases. The plant accounted for a significant portion of Canada's beef production.

2020-05-10
Cargill Plant Closure in Chambly

On May 10, 2020, Cargill's plant in Chambly was not shut down by Quebec's public health authority despite COVID-19 cases among employees. The company closed the plant voluntarily.

2020-05-11
Cargill Plant Outbreak in Alberta

By May 11, 2020, the Cargill plant in Alberta had become the largest single-site COVID-19 outbreak in North America with about 1,000 reported cases. There were concerns about worker safety and management actions.

2020-06-03
Cargill stops publishing quarterly results

On June 3, 2020, Cargill announced that it would no longer publish quarterly results, ending a practice that had been in place since 1996. This decision was made amidst the COVID-19 pandemic.

2020-11-25
Cargill's Impact on Global Agribusiness

Cargill, America's second biggest private company, has deeply influenced global agribusiness by being involved in various aspects of food production and consumption. The company's controversial practices, including links to deforestation and other scandals, have raised concerns.

2021
Cargill's Net Profit Earnings

In 2021, Cargill reported net profit earnings of just below $5 billion. This financial success demonstrates the company's strong performance in the market.

2022
Cargill's Revenue Report

Cargill reported gross revenues of $165 billion in 2022, solidifying its position as the largest privately held company in the United States in terms of revenue.

2024
Cargill compliance with WHO's trans-fatty acids standard

Cargill becomes the first global edible oils supplier to adhere to the World Health Organization's recommended standard on industrially produced trans-fatty acids.

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Cargill
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