ABZ Seeds has been acquired by Planasa

ABZ Seeds, a renowned breeder of seed-propagated F1 hybrid strawberry varieties, has been acquired by Planasa, a global leader in breeding next-generation berry varieties, including blueberries, blackberries, raspberries and strawberries.

This strategic acquisition represents a transformative step in Planasa’s expansion into the high-growth F1 hybrid strawberry segment and highlights the accelerating industry-wide shift from traditional vegetative varieties to seed-propagated varieties. In addition to strengthening its position in the F1 hybrid seed market, this transaction enables Planasa to expand into the ornamental strawberry plant segment — a dynamic and fast-growing niche market.

Emerging as a carveout of what is today known as Syngenta in 1993 and headquartered in the Netherlands, ABZ Seeds has established itself as a pioneer in developing and breeding seed-propagated F1-hybrid strawberry varieties for both the strawberry production and floriculture market segments. ABZ was the first company in the strawberry industry to develop the strawberry-from-seed concept.

Planasa, headquartered in Spain, specializes in research and development (R&D) for breeding next-generation berry varieties, including blueberries, blackberries, raspberries and strawberries, designed to better meet the needs of plant growers, retailers and consumers worldwide. The company operates six R&D centers in Europe, Mexico and the US, and is present in more than 25 countries, supplying customers through its 13 nursery facilities in Europe, Africa, the Americas and Asia. Planasa is part of the family-owned EW Group.

Oaklins’ team in the Netherlands served as the exclusive sell-side advisor to the shareholders of ABZ Seeds in this transaction. This deal underscores Oaklins’ extensive expertise in supporting breeding transactions within the horticulture and agriculture sectors. With in-depth sector knowledge and a proven track record, Oaklins continues to be the most experienced M&A advisor in this field.