11.14.11

Hoeven: United Pulse's Expansion Signals New Agribusiness Opportunity for Minot

MINOT, N.D. – Senator John Hoeven joined United Pulse Trading in announcing plans to expand its pulse production operation to Minot. As governor, he worked with North Dakota’s Department of Commerce, local officials and executives from United Pulse Trading’s parent company to bring the company to North Dakota, a leading producer of pulses, like lentils, peas and chickpeas. This collaboration was part of Hoeven’s efforts to expand agribusiness throughout the state as part of North Dakota’s strategic plan for economic growth.

“We in North Dakota are pleased to see United Pulse Trading expanding its important agribusiness to Minot. We’ve worked hard to create a pro-business environment that both encourages investment in our state and also helps our companies reach their full potential. Peas and lentils are growing in importance around the world because they are excellent protein sources. With its expansions in North Dakota, United Pulse Trading has planted itself in the heart of pulse country, and it is poised to meet these new market demands,” Hoeven said.

Hoeven worked with United Pulse Trading to establish a facility in Williston and a sales office in Bismarck. A subsidiary of Alliance Grain Traders, United Pulse Trading acquired a facility in the Minot Agriculture Park that was intended for pulse-processing use.

The new Minot plant is expected to employ an estimated 45 employees. Its production will augment the processing underway in the Williston plant, with plans to expand its capacity for further pulse processing into flours, proteins, starches and fibers.

United Pulse Trading made its announcement this afternoon at the Minot City Hall with company CEO Murad Al-Katib. Also present for the announcement were Sen. Kent Conrad, Gov. Jack Dalrymple, Minot Mayor Curt Zimbelman, and Minot Area Development Corporation Chairman Jay Fisher.

“We’re proud that our state is not only an agricultural leader in pulse crop production, but also leads the nation in the production of more than a dozen important commodities,” Hoeven said.