CHS, a global energy, grains and foods company and the nation's largest member-owned cooperative, has acquired a 50% share in an Australian firm to increase shipments of Australian wheat to the Asia-Pacific region.

CHS, headquartered in Inver Grove Heights, purchased Broadbent Grain, a third-generation agricultural supply chain management company located in Queensland and Victoria.

CHS officials said investing in Broadbent will expand grain storage, handling and logistical expertise to deliver Australian wheat via shipping containers to customers across the Asia-Pacific region.

The partnership is effective Oct. 1, and the company name and brand will remain Broadbent Grain.