Sustainea and Primient Collaborate to Create Largest Bio-MEG Facility in U.S. in Lafayette, Indiana

Sustainea and Primient have announced a strategic partnership to co-locate their operations, allowing Primient to supply corn dextrose from its Lafayette, Indiana facility to Sustainea’s inaugural Bio-MEG (monoethylene glycol) plant. This significant investment, totaling around $400 million, aims to produce a renewable, plant-based alternative to traditional petroleum-based MEG. Sustainea is positioning itself to become a global leader in Bio-MEG, which is designed as a drop-in product that offers high quality and functionality while significantly lowering the carbon footprint compared to fossil-based options.

As a leading manufacturer of plant-based ingredients, Primient is recognized for producing high-quality, low-carbon dextrose. The incorporation of Primient’s feedstock into Sustainea’s Bio-MEG facility will play a vital role in reducing reliance on conventional fossil-based plastics. The resulting bioproducts will be utilized in various applications, including beverage bottles, food containers, apparel, and footwear.

Gustavo Sergi, the Chief Executive Officer of Sustainea, expressed that this partnership represents a major advancement in establishing one of the largest sustainability initiatives worldwide. He highlighted Primient as a strategic partner, emphasizing their shared values and operational synergies. The energy-efficient, low-carbon dextrose produced at Primient's Lafayette facility is expected to enhance the sustainability and competitiveness of Sustainea's products. Sergi noted that this collaboration will particularly benefit customers looking to decarbonize the rapidly expanding PET (polyethylene terephthalate) market.

Jim Stutelberg, the Chief Executive Officer of Primient, explained that the decision to enter into a co-location partnership with Sustainea stems from their aligned missions and the compelling value proposition of Sustainea’s Bio-MEG in today's market. He described the choice of Lafayette as a testament to Primient’s commitment to a low carbon footprint, supported by investments in co-generation capabilities that have transitioned their production away from coal. Stutelberg emphasized that this collaboration exemplifies Primient’s vision of building a better future through plant-based solutions, showcasing how the integration of both companies’ strengths is fostering biobased innovation and addressing the demand for renewable, plant-based alternatives.

The partnership has received enthusiastic backing from the state of Indiana and the city of Lafayette, influenced by the region's robust infrastructure, established transportation networks, and supportive local policies. Groundbreaking for the Bio-MEG plant is anticipated to commence following the completion of engineering and final investment decisions, with production expected to start in 2028. This project is set to pave the way for significant advancements in sustainable manufacturing and the development of renewable materials in the industry.

Primient is a top producer of food and industrial ingredients derived from plant-based, renewable sources. The company provides value through its extensive technical, commercial, and operational expertise, built upon a rich history in corn wet milling. Primient's priorities span from field to customer, emphasizing the production of safe, high-quality products while maintaining its commitments to responsibility towards its people and the planet.