POTATO breeder and seed supplier Royal HZPC Group, which recently announced its intention to acquire the Ireland-based potato breeder and exporter, IPM Potato Group, says it is a strategic move which will strengthen its position in the global seed potato sector.
The Dutch group said both organisations will explore how they can strengthen one another.
Since its founding in 1950, IPM Potato Group has grown into Ireland’s market leader in seed potato breeding, production, and export. The company is also the largest exporter of protected and exclusive varieties in the United Kingdom. Through a strong grower network in Ireland, Scotland, France, the Netherlands, and England, IPM Potato Group exports to 40 countries, with a strong focus on the Mediterranean region.
In the field of research and development, IPM Potato Group has been collaborating with Teagasc, Ireland’s national institute for research, advisory, and education in the agri-food sector, for more than 50 years. This ongoing partnership continues to drive innovation and has resulted in a portfolio of resilient varieties.
Director of IPM Potato Group Marcel de Sousa said the collaboration opens up new opportunities for growth, but that IPM will retain its name and continue to work with its existing customers and growers.
“Our conversations show that our visions for the future of our sector are closely aligned. At the same time, we maintain our own identity and direction. We see this as a valuable opportunity and look forward to building a strong future together.”
CEO of Royal HZPC Group, Hans Huistra, said the acquisition was keen to work with a leading brand in potato breeding and export from the British Isles.
“It’s a company that fits seamlessly with our way of working. They have strong customer relationships, collaborate closely with their growers, and place a high value on innovation. These qualities have led to seed potatoes that are recognised worldwide as high-quality starting material.”
With the acquisition, HZPC’s’s total acreage will be expanded by 1,800 hectares, primarily from Scotland, a leading seed potato region. Hans said it also opens doors to new markets and export opportunities, especially in key growth regions such as North Africa.
The acquisition of IPM Potato Group by Royal HZPC Group is subject to approval by the competition authorities.
