Agribusiness Richardson International is launching a “full overhaul” at its oat mill in Bedford, England that will lift the site’s capacity by some 35%, increase the mill’s efficiency, and modernize its operations, a recent company release announced.

Work is slated to begin this spring. During the effort, Richardson will add a high-speed receiving system, expanded storage capacity, as well as other features that improve the efficiency of production and processing. Expanded warehouse space will improve the site’s transportation and logistics capabilities.

“The global oats segment is thriving as shifting consumer behaviors drive market growth,” Benoit Soucy, vice president, Milling Operations for Richardson, said in a statement. “A significant investment such as this will enable us to fulfil the incremental demand of our customers as we continue to efficiently meet current requirements and anticipate their evolving needs.”

Demand for oat-based products, like oat milk, has accelerated in recent years. Richardson’s oat mill is situated in a key oat growing region in the UK.

“As a world class oat milling operation, we are incredibly excited by our new plans. Consumer interest in healthy oat products continues to grow and we see this as a great opportunity to supply existing and new customers with quality oat products,” said David Jordan, board director for Richardson Milling UK, in the release. “The outlook is positive for all industry participants – from the farming community and our facility staff to our suppliers and valued customers.”

Richardson expects to complete the project in 2025.