Bayer CropScience has agreed a deal to acquire the watermelon and melon seed business of Abbott & Cobb (A&C), a breeder, producer and marketer based in the US with distribution throughout the Americas and over 60 other countries.
The acquisition is expected to strengthen the German company's vegetable seed business, which operates under the Nunhems brand and is a key segment for the company.
Around 30 employees of Pennsylvania-based A&C are expected to join the group's vegetable seed business when the deal is finalised in a few weeks.
According to Bayer, A&C has a 'robust' position in the US market for watermelon seeds, with increasing business in Mexico, Australia and Asia.
The purchase is therefore being see as a significant step forward for Bayer CropScience in the North American market.
In addition, A&C's melon business will broaden Bayer's existing seed portfolio further and could provide a basis for developing new hybrids.
'The demand for healthy fruits and vegetables is increasing worldwide, and this segment is of crucial importance for Bayer CropScience,' commented Bayer CropScience chief executive Sandra Peterson.
'We plan to achieve sales of about €3bn with seeds, traits and crop protection solutions for fruits and vegetables by 2020. Our vegetable seed business is essential for this.'
Douwe Zijp, head of Bayer CropScience's vegetable seed business, added: 'We are already present in all major vegetable production areas in the world with an extensive range of 28 crops and some 2,500 varieties of Nunhems brand vegetable seed – and we are very pleased to strengthen our business with the renowned seed business of Abbott & Cobb and their experienced staff.'
A&C chief executive Art Abbott, said: 'We are excited to join forces with Bayer CropScience's vegetable seeds organization with our watermelon and melon business – foremost because of its commitment to providing innovative solutions to vegetable growers throughout the world.
He added: 'Together we will build on the long tradition of our company offering high-quality products and excellent service.'
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