Richardson to Invest $220M in Wesson Oil Production Facility

Richardson International ('Richardson') is investing in its Wesson Oil facility in Memphis, TN. The project will replace the existing refinery with a new, state-of-the-art refinery plant.

"The Wesson Oil facility in Memphis provides Richardson a strong retail brand and a great location supported by a very dedicated team of employees," said Tobias Dewey, vice president, Oilseed Operations. "Collectively, these elements provided the confidence to support meaningful investment and innovation in the Memphis plant's operations – including significantly expanding our industrial and food service offerings. We are excited that this plan will soon become fully realized."

When the multi-phase project is complete, the new refinery, will modernize the site and significantly increase production and refining capacity. Improved efficiencies will also drive substantial reductions in water, energy, and wastewater volumes, aligning well with Richardson's focus on responsible and sustainable business operations. 

"There is a 360-degree aspect to what we do. In considering our employees, our plant, and the local community, Richardson strives to be a responsible operation," said Jason Medawar, senior director, Operations, Memphis). "This latest announcement underscores our commitment to business sustainability, to best-in-class facilities, and to our team at Memphis. It also underscores a broader commitment to Shelby County, the city of Memphis, and the state of Tennessee. We are all proud to be part of a company that is here for the long term and an organization that is committed to making a positive impact in the broader community where we do business."

Additional initiatives from Richardson's oilseed processing division include a three-year expansion project at its facility in Yorkton, SK — which is more than doubling crushing and refining capability — and an increase in crushing and refining capability at the company's Lethbridge, AB facility.