Royal HZPC sees revenue topping €500 million as seed potato demand rises

Royal HZPC, a Netherlands-based potato breeder and seed supplier, expects revenue and shipment volumes to reach record levels in the 2024/25 fiscal year, citing strong international demand for resilient, high-yielding potato varieties.

The company said it anticipates global turnover to surpass €500 million (approximately $535 million), up from the previous year, while total seed potato volume is projected to exceed 1 million tonnes. The expected gains are attributed to sales growth in proprietary potato varieties and expanded licensing activity.

“We expect a clear increase in both turnover and gross margin,” Chief Executive Hans Huistra said in a statement. “This will allow for substantially higher earnings and improved payout prices to growers.”

The company, which operates globally through both physical exports and licensing, said most of the growth stems from its investment in protected varieties developed through internal research and development. It reported sales and pricing improvements across key markets in Europe, Africa, Asia, and the Americas.

Executive Changes and Strategic Expansion

To support continued growth, Royal HZPC Group announced changes to its leadership structure, effective July 1, 2025. Peter Ton will oversee the Europe, Middle East, and North Africa region, covering both HZPC and STET business units. Herman Verveld will lead operations in Asia, the Americas, and Africa. Research and development will remain under the direction of Robert Graveland.

Chief Financial Officer Jordan van Vilsteren will step down on Nov. 1, 2025, after nearly a decade with the company. A successor has not been named. “Jordan has fulfilled his role with integrity and dedication,” Huistra said.

Focus on Food Security

In addition to its commercial goals, the company emphasized its contribution to global food supply. “With one million tonnes of seed potatoes, we support local production systems across several continents,” Huistra said. He added that the crop’s high yield, nutritional profile, and adaptability make it well-suited for addressing food security challenges.

Royal HZPC Group operates in more than 90 countries and focuses on breeding, multiplying, and trading seed potatoes suited to a variety of climates and agricultural systems.