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CHS and GROWMARK-backed venture invests in AI marine logistics firm OpenTug
The investment targets digitizing barge logistics with OpenTug’s BargeOS platform, aimed at improving visibility and coordinating marine freight networks for grain supply chains.
CHS Inc. and GROWMARK’s joint venture, Cooperative Ventures, is investing in OpenTug, an AI-native logistics technology company, World Grain reports. The company said OpenTug’s BargeOS is designed to optimize marine logistics by bringing commercial planning, voyage management, invoice reconciliation, and reporting into a single platform.
World Grain said marine transportation is often efficient for moving large volumes, but has historically relied on complex, paper-heavy processes. The platform is intended to give KPI-led visibility and insights, supporting stronger customer ROI and helping streamline operations across grain supply chains.
CHS CFO David Black said cooperatives depend on resilient, cost-effective transportation to move grain and fertilizer through the supply chain. He added that OpenTug’s platform is meant to create a digital bridge for improved coordination across marine freight networks, which the company says will help drive greater efficiency across the cooperative system.
Cooperative Ventures focuses on relationships between startups and cooperative partners, and the outlet said the investment reflects its commitment to supply chain innovation and sustainability through digitizing marine logistics. World Grain also noted that grain storage and handling companies are seeking smarter efficiency improvements, not just larger capacity.