Archer Daniels Midland Co. has selected Chicago for its new global headquarters and customer center. A corporate team of about 50 to 75 employees will move to the center, said Patricia Woertz, chairman and chief executive officer of ADM, on Dec. 18.
“While we considered other global hubs, Chicago emerged as the best location to provide efficient access to global markets while maintaining our close connections with U.S. farmers, customers and operations,” Ms. Woertz said. “Chicago also provides an environment where we can attract and retain employees with diverse skills and where their family members can find ample career opportunities.”
ADM, which currently is based in Decatur, still is considering locations in several states for a new information technology center, which will include about 100 new jobs. The company expects to decide on a location by the middle of next year.
ADM announced plans to move its global headquarters from Decatur on Sept. 23. At the time the company had 4,400 employees in Decatur. The company does not plan any layoffs in connection with the move to Chicago. Decatur will become ADM’s North American headquarters.
ADM worldwide employs 30,000 people. The company converts oilseeds, corn, wheat and cocoa into products for food, animal feed, industrial and energy uses.