ADM makes history as first repeat winner of Virginia port’s top shipper
Global agri-giant ADM becomes first repeat recipient of The Port of Virginia’s Shipper of the Year Award.
The Port of Virginia has named Archer Daniels Midland Co. (ADM) as its 2026 Shipper of the Year, making the global agricultural conglomerate the second time ADM has received the port’s Shipper of the Year Award. The honour, presented at the Virginia Maritime Association’s International Trade Symposium in Norfolk, recognises ADM’s more than a dozen years with the port and its role in enhancing supply chain efficiencies.
ADM, a long-time user of the port, first received the award in 2013 following the opening of its intermodal yard and complex in Decatur, Illinois. This facility has since enabled the port to expand its inland traffic network, accommodating both ADM’s volume and third-party cargo.
Thomas D. Capozzi, the port’s Chief Sales and Marketing Officer, highlighted ADM’s unique standing in the selection process. “We have never had a repeat recipient,” he said, “but when we considered the candidates’ pool, ADM rose to the top because of its ongoing commitment to improve its transportation infrastructure and reliance on The Port of Virginia to reach world markets.” Capozzi added that thousands of ADM containers move across Virginia’s marine terminals each year, generating benefits for the global supply chain.
The port’s strategic advantages, including its Mid-Atlantic location, strong rail connections, and infrastructure investments, have been instrumental in ADM’s operations. A company representative noted during the 2013 award ceremony that the port’s commitment to deepening its channel to 55 feet was a critical factor in meeting ADM’s grain export needs.
ADM’s role in global trade: Virginia
The company’s operations span the globe, with a focus on transforming crops into products for food, feed, industrial, and energy uses.
Drew Garren, ADM’s Director of North American Container Trade, emphasised the importance of the relationship. “ADM is proud of the long and collaborative relationship it has with The Port of Virginia,” he said. “We were here more than a dozen years ago and are humbled to be standing here again. Our ongoing partnership with the port is critical to moving goods more efficiently and reliably so we can deliver on our promise to deliver our products on-time across the globe.”
The award ceremony, held on a Wednesday during the International Trade Symposium, was attended by a team of ADM representatives, including Scott Spaulding and Bryan Neibuhr, both export container traders. The event underscored the port’s commitment to recognising partners that contribute to its growth and efficiency.
The Port of Virginia’s focus on deepening its channel, expanding rail connections, and investing in terminal infrastructure sets a standard for other ports seeking to attract and retain major clients. ADM’s success in leveraging these advantages underscores the importance of choosing ports that align with a company’s long-term logistics strategy.
Looking ahead, the port’s ongoing investments in infrastructure and technology are expected to further strengthen its position as a leader in global trade. For ADM, the award reaffirms its commitment to The Port of Virginia as a critical partner in its supply chain. As the company continues to expand its global reach, the port’s strategic location and capabilities will remain vital to its operations.
Shippers and industry stakeholders can learn more about The Port of Virginia’s services and infrastructure by visiting the Virginia Port Authority’s official website. For updates on ADM’s operations and global trade initiatives, the company’s corporate website provides detailed information on its agricultural and logistics activities.
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