Dupont Acquires Seed Companies

Melissa Sandfort

DuPont has entered into agreements to acquire AgVenture, Kentland, Ind.; Hoegemeyer Hybrids, Hooper, Neb., and NuTech Seed, Ames, Iowa; as part of its Pioneer Hi-Bred business’ PROaccess strategy. Closings are scheduled to occur in the latter part of 2010. Terms were not disclosed.

The innovation breadth and depth of Pioneer research and development will strengthen the already robust businesses and customer relationships of AgVenture, Hoegemeyer Hybrids and NuTech Seed. The companies have exciting growth opportunities reachable by expanding product choices for growers in geographies where they operate.

The PROaccess strategy continues to be part of the ongoing commitment to expand the availability of Pioneer’s unique, elite seed genetics using Pioneer-owned brands distributed through alternative routes to market. Ultimately, this will result in growers having more choices for high-performing products to increase their yields and income.

The three seed companies will continue to sell products under the Pioneer-owned trademarks following closing:
– AgVenture – VPMaxx® brand corn hybrids and soybean varieties.
– Hoegemeyer Hybrids – HPT® brand corn hybrids and soybean varieties.
– NuTech Seed – G2® brand corn hybrids and soybean varieties.

Pioneer