Key Takeaways:
- Planasa signs agreement to acquire Illinois Foundation Seeds Inc. (IFSI), a leader in vegetable and corn genetics.
- The transaction expands Planasa’s global footprint in plant breeding and research innovation.
- IFSI will retain operational independence under its current management team.
- The acquisition reinforces EW Group’s long-term commitment to sustainable agriculture and food security.
- Completion is pending regulatory approvals expected in the coming months.
Planasa to Expand Genetic Research Portfolio with IFSI Acquisition
Planasa, a global leader in plant genetics and a subsidiary of EW Group, announced an agreement to acquire Illinois Foundation Seeds Inc. (IFSI), a company specializing in vegetable genetics research, development, and dent corn genetic licensing. The partnership will combine both organizations’ strengths to advance innovation and sustainability within the global agricultural sector.
With more than 88 years of experience and sales across 70 countries, IFSI brings a legacy of excellence in plant breeding and seed technology. By joining Planasa and the EW Group ecosystem, IFSI will gain access to expanded global resources, further enhancing its capacity for growth, research, and innovation.
Continuity and Shared Vision
Under the agreement, IFSI will continue operating independently under its current leadership team. This structure ensures that its customer relationships, research initiatives, and strategic partnerships will remain uninterrupted.
“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.
“For IFSI, entering into this agreement with Planasa and EW Group means gaining a solid long-term partner who fully respects our culture and our team,” added Clinton Naugle, CEO of IFSI.
Strengthening EW Group’s Global Agricultural Innovation Network
The acquisition strengthens EW Group’s integrated network of companies in plant, poultry, and aquaculture genetics. It also aligns with the Group’s focus on sustainable agricultural solutions that improve productivity and food system resilience.
Upon completion, Planasa and EW Group will expand their collective research capabilities across new crop categories and regions, positioning themselves at the forefront of global efforts to develop climate-resilient and high-performance plant varieties.
