GDM has announced its intention to acquire all shares of AgReliant Genetics, a top provider of corn and soybean seeds in North America. This strategic move aims to strengthen GDM’s position in the agricultural market and provide farmers with enhanced seed solutions.
The acquisition unites GDM’s expertise in soybean genetics with AgReliant’s extensive knowledge in corn breeding, which is expected to solidify GDM’s leadership in North America. “The GDM and AgReliant teams share a commitment to helping growers get the highest yield for their fields, and we are excited to welcome them into the GDM family,” said Ignacio Bartolomé, CEO of GDM. He emphasised that this partnership is a significant step in GDM’s growth strategy, enabling the company to offer a broader range of high-performance solutions.
AgReliant Genetics, headquartered in Westfield, Indiana, was established in 2000 through a joint venture between KWS and Limagrain. It serves farmers with various seeds under brands like AgriGold and LG Seeds in the U.S., and PRIDE Seeds in Canada. The company has one of the largest temperate corn genetic pools and a robust research program.
With this acquisition, GDM aims to enhance its competitive edge, combining its soybean genetic licensing capabilities with AgReliant’s corn expertise. “Farmers across North America stand to benefit tremendously from AgReliant joining GDM,” said Brian Barker, CEO of AgReliant. He noted that this merger brings together global innovation and local insights to create a robust seed portfolio.
Upon completion of the transaction, GDM is projected to become the fourth-largest corn genetics provider globally. Barker is anticipated to lead GDM’s North American operations, while Philip Chandler will continue managing GDM’s existing business in the U.S.
The acquisition is pending regulatory approval by the Federal Trade Commission and the Department of Justice, along with other customary conditions. Until those approvals are finalised, GDM and AgReliant will continue to operate independently, maintaining their current business operations.