Leading global berry breeder Planasa has acquired Dutch company ABZ Seeds, a specialist in breeding F1 hybrid strawberry varieties propagated from seed.
In a statement, Planasa said that its expansion into the high-growth F1 hybrid strawberry segment demonstrated ‘the accelerating industry shift from traditional vegetative to seed-propagated varieties’. In addition to strengthening its position in the F1 hybrid seed market, this transaction enables Spain-based Planasa to expand into the ornamental strawberry plant segment, which is described as ‘a dynamic and fast-growing niche market’.
“This acquisition allows us to expand our strawberry genetic portfolio and accelerates the development of next-generation varieties to better meet the needs of our customers, growers, retailers, and end consumers worldwide,” commented Michael Brinkman, CEO of Planasa. Chief Scientific Officer Kees Konst added, “By joining forces with ABZ, Planasa reinforces its vision to drive innovation and sustainability in agriculture and consolidates its position as a pioneer in seed-propagated F1 hybrids for everbearing strawberries. Growing seed-propagated strawberry varieties is becoming increasingly popular due to their numerous advantages over traditional propagation methods”.
Marc van Wanroij has been appointed as CEO at ABZ Seeds following the retirement of founder Gé Bentvelsen. ABZ Seeds, which started as a spin-off from Syngenta in 1993, and developed the strawberry-from-seed concept, will continue to operate independently as an autonomous business unit in Andijk. “Planasa’s commitment to preserving ABZ Seeds’ autonomy reflects its dedication to nurturing the company’s unique strengths and culture,” added Brinkman. “Marc brings exceptional leadership and deep expertise in the food and agribusiness sector and is eager to lead ABZ into this next phase by expanding the varietal portfolio and providing outstanding service to clients worldwide”.
“Under the ownership of Planasa, ABZ Seeds will continue its legacy of innovation and excellence, supporting its employees, growers and stakeholders as it grows into new markets and applications,” commented Philip Smits, board chairman at ABZ Seeds.
Planasa, part of the family-owned EW Group, currently operates six R&D centres in Europe, Mexico and the US, and is present in more than 25 countries, supplying customers through 13 nursery facilities.
