RAGT acquires Deleplanque, expanding seed portfolio and global reach

French seed producer RAGT Group has acquired the Deleplanque Group, including its Strube and van Waveren subsidiaries, strengthening its position in sugar beet and vegetable seeds across more than 50 countries.

The acquisition expands RAGT’s crop portfolio and international footprint, positioning sugar beet among its top three seed categories. The combined entity generates €500 million in annual revenue and employs 1,500 people across 15 seed production sites, including seven in France. Together, the companies manage 65 breeding programs covering nearly 40 crop species.

Founded in the 1919, RAGT Semences operates in 50 countries and develops seed solutions across a broad range of crops. It invests 18% of its revenue into research through 21 global R&D stations. The company has pursued a multi-species approach to meet farmers’ crop rotation needs, shaped by environmental and regulatory pressures—particularly those tied to the European Union’s Common Agricultural Policy.

Deleplanque, founded in the 19th century, is a privately held, family-run company specializing in sugar beet, vegetable, and field crop seeds such as peas, beans, sweet corn, wheat, and sunflower. Based in Maisons-Laffitte, France, it has 450 employees across nine sites, including two in Germany.

“This acquisition aligns fully with our shareholders’ strategy and enhances our ability to deliver solutions to farmers facing economic, climatic, and environmental pressures,” said Laurent Guerreiro, president of RAGT Group.

The transaction is part of a broader push by seed producers to consolidate and diversify in response to climate risks, changing EU agricultural policy, and rising demand for crop resilience. RAGT said the integration will help the combined group deliver more tailored varietal innovation and agronomic support.

“This represents a milestone for our seed division,” said Damien Robert, managing director of RAGT’s seed business. “It’s an opportunity to combine expertise and create a more dynamic platform for innovation.”

Eric Verjux, president of Deleplanque, said the deal would also allow the group to accelerate investment in research and broaden professional development opportunities for staff.

The integration process begins immediately, with a joint strategic roadmap expected in the second half of 2025.