Planasa, a company specialising in plant genetics and part of the German family-owned EW Group, has announced an agreement to acquire Illinois Foundation Seeds Inc. (IFSI), a U.S.-based company engaged in vegetable genetics research and dent corn genetic licensing. The transaction aims to combine the research capacities of both organisations to advance breeding and genetics in the agricultural sector.
© IFSI
According to Planasa, the acquisition aligns with EW Group’s broader focus on sustainable agricultural development. IFSI, founded 88 years ago, operates in more than 70 countries and will join EW Group’s existing network of genetics companies active in the plant, poultry, and aquaculture sectors.
Following the acquisition, IFSI will continue to operate under its current management and retain its operational independence. The company will maintain its existing research programs and customer relations while gaining access to Planasa’s international network and resources.
Michael Brinkmann, CEO of Planasa, said, “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.”
Clinton Naugle, CEO of IFSI, commented, “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.”
The acquisition remains subject to regulatory approval and is expected to be completed in the coming months.
For more information:
Hans Liekens
Planasa
Tel: +34 687 900 915
Email: [email protected]
www.planasa.com
Publication date:
Fri 24 Oct 2025
