By Andi Anderson
The Indiana Corn Marketing Council (ICMC) is taking strides to promote and make higher-ethanol fuel blends readily available for Indiana consumers. Through strategic investments, ICMC is working with partners like Family Express, a Valparaiso-based retailer, to promote infrastructure updates that include these higher blends of ethanol.
Gus Olympidis, President and CEO of Family Express, shared insights during a recent visit, expressing the company's commitment to renewable fuels, the agriculture industry, and Indiana farmers. Family Express is undergoing a significant expansion, updating its colonial-style appearance to appeal to a younger demographic. With plans for up to 20 new convenience stores, the retailer focuses on enhancing its food service, incorporating car washes, and embracing a contemporary aesthetic.
As an early adopter and advocate for higher blends of ethanol, Family Express offers E85 Flex Fuel and Unleaded 88 at select locations. Olympidis emphasizes the sensible choice of corn-based ethanol for the company, considering Indiana's abundant corn supply and the environmental benefits of renewable fuels.
ICMC and Family Express have collaborated for over a decade, promoting biofuels and advancing the industry. Olympidis sees an opportunity to highlight the environmental benefits of ethanol, showcasing its up to 50% reduction in greenhouse gas emissions compared to petroleum.
While addressing the current discourse on environmentalism, Olympidis distinguishes biofuels as a true environmental solution. He points out the immediate impact consumers can make by choosing biofuels, emphasizing the ease of integrating them into existing vehicles without the need for major infrastructure changes.
ICMC continues to work closely with Family Express to promote ethanol, supporting Indiana corn and the biofuels industry. The partnership focuses on making biofuels readily available to consumers, contributing to a reduction in greenhouse gas emissions and fostering a sustainable future for agriculture.
ICMC Biofuels Director Helena Jette, who has worked with Family Express for about six years, looks forward to new collaborations in 2024. She commends Family Express for consistently supporting and utilizing biofuels, showcasing leadership in the industry.
As the collaboration thrives, Family Express markets E85 in nearly 30 retail outlets, contributing to the growing number of ethanol fuel stations in Indiana. The partnership aligns with ICMC's commitment to expanding ethanol availability, supporting farmers, and promoting a greener, more sustainable future.
Photo Credit: gettyimages-dszc
Categories: Indiana, Crops, Corn, Energy