Official Newspaper of Eddy County since 1883
Official Newspaper of Eddy County since 1883
On the heels of World Pulses Day and the GPC Pulses 24 convention in New Delhi, India this month, the CEO and President of Columbia Grain International Jeff Van Pevenage has been appointed to the Global Pulse Confederation’s Board of Directors. The Global Pulse Confederation represents all segments of the pulse industry value chain from growers, researchers, logistics suppliers, traders, exporters and importers to government bodies, multilateral organizations, processors, canners and consumers. Its membership includes 24 national associations and over 500 private sector members. Van Pevenage will serve a minimum 3-year term and take part in the Market Access Committee, as well. Van Pevenage brings more than 20 years of experience in global pulse markets to his role.
Van Pevenage was instrumental in growing CGI’s pulse business across the Pacific Northwest in the late '90s, during which time he spent 15 years dedicating himself to building and acquiring assets and learning the intricacies of the worldwide pulse industry. As a result of Columbia Grain’s endeavors, more and more pulse production flowed into the Northern Plains and to date CGI is the largest pulse handler in the U.S.
Van Pevenage will bring decades of experience in world pulse markets and his extensive knowledge of how the trade works to his new role. “With rising adoption across households, the flour industry and the snack food sector, the overall sales of pulse products are poised for growth. The global pulses market was valued at USD 70.17 billion in 2023 and is expected to grow at a CAGR of 5.20 percent from 2024-2032. I hope to bring supply chain solutions to the board, as well as relationships that will help to expand the production and consumption of pulses. I plan to be highly involved in interacting with government officials and R&D to help promote the growth and use of pulses worldwide,” says Van Pevenage.
Van Pevenage will also expand the use of pulses in the ingredients category. “The use of pulses in ingredients is on the rise and the U.S. has the best quality pulses in the world,” he says. “One of our goals is to expand the use of U.S.-grown pulses in new ingredient innovations.”
Columbia Grain is also active in the GPC Young Professionals group (GPCYP) which was formed to connect young entrepreneurs 35 and under, and create opportunities for learning, sharing knowledge, conducting business and helping advance the objectives of the global pulse industry.
