Planasa acquires ABZ Seeds

Berry breeder Planasa has acquired ABZ Seeds, a breeder of seed-propagated F1 hybrid strawberry varieties. Planasa said the move marks a transformative step in its expansion into the high-growth F1 hybrid strawberry segment and highlights the accelerating industry-wide shift from traditional vegetative varieties towards seed-propagated varieties.

CEO Michael Brinkman commented: “This acquisition allows us to expand our strawberry genetics portfolio and accelerates development of next-generation varieties to better suit the needs of our clients, growers, as well as retailers and end-consumers all over the world”.

Kees Konst, Planasa’s chief scientific officer, said the deal establishes the company as the pioneer in seed-propagated F1 hybrid for ever-bearing strawberries. The method is becoming increasingly popular due to their numerous benefits over traditional propagation methods.

Under Planasa’s ownership, ABZ Seeds will continue to operate independently as standalone business unit in Andijk, the Netherlands, under the leadership of new CEO Marc van Wanroij, who previously served as CEO of Pop Vriend Seeds. He replaces founder Gé Bentvelsen who recently retired.

“Planasa’s commitment to preserving ABZ Seeds’ autonomy reflects its dedication to nurturing the company’s unique strengths and culture,” Brinkman said.

“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.”