CN's merger with Iowa Northern Railway aims to enhance operational efficiency and service delivery in Iowa's critical agricultural sector.

Information on the Target

In early March 2023, CN (Canadian National Railway) and Iowa Northern Railway Company officially merged their operations following approval from the U.S. Surface Transportation Board. This combination aims to enhance service offerings to customers, bolster the Iowa economy, and support the communities along the railway network. The Iowa Northern Railway plays a pivotal role in the region, serving approximately 20 grain elevators, two ethanol plants, a soybean processing facility, and two mineral processing operations, as well as various manufacturing, chemicals, and agronomy-related businesses.

The merger is set to create a unified railway network that facilitates seamless single-line service connecting critical markets including grain, fertilizer, renewable fuels, and industrial sectors to CN’s expansive North American network. The integration process is already underway, focusing on collaboration with customers to better meet their needs while maximizing operational efficiency.

Industry Overview in Iowa

The railroad industry in Iowa is essential to the state's economy, primarily due to its agricultural productivity. Iowa is one of the leading states in corn and soybean production, which