Planasa to acquire IFSI to expand global plant genetics footprint

Planasa, the plant genetics arm of Germany’s EW Group, has reached an agreement to acquire Illinois Foundation Seeds Inc. (IFSI), a US-based leader in vegetable genetics research and dent corn licensing. The transaction is intended to combine the expertise of both companies, accelerating innovation in global crop breeding and supporting sustainable agricultural practices.

IFSI, founded in 1937 and with sales in more than 70 countries, will maintain operational independence under its current management team, preserving its research and customer-service priorities. Joining Planasa’s global network is expected to provide IFSI with additional resources and broader market access.

“We are very proud to announce this agreement with IFSI. Their expertise and leadership in vegetable genetics complement our vision of becoming a global reference in plant genetics,” said Michael Brinkmann, CEO of Planasa. Clinton Naugle, CEO of IFSI, described the deal as gaining “a solid long-term partner who fully respects our culture and our team.”

Planasa, which employs over 4,000 people across 25 countries and operates six R&D centers, specializes in berry varieties including blueberries, raspberries, strawberries, and blackberries, and maintains a long tradition in crops such as garlic, asparagus, and avocado. The company produces more than one billion plants annually across nurseries spanning Spain, the US, China, Peru, Mexico, Morocco, Poland, and France.

The acquisition reflects EW Group’s strategy of building a diversified life sciences portfolio that spans plant, poultry, and aquaculture genetics. With over 300 subsidiaries and more than 28,000 employees worldwide, the family-owned group emphasizes innovation-driven businesses at the early stages of the value chain, including genetics, animal health, diagnostics, and nutrition.

The deal is subject to customary regulatory approvals and is expected to close in the coming months.