Sakata Seed，Alf Christianson Seed merge

Sakata Seed America, Inc. and Alf Christianson Seed Co. recently announced that the two companies will merge, effective immediately.

The newly merged entity will operate under the Sakata Seed America name and will be headquartered in Morgan Hill, CA. Sakata Seed America will retain a significant presence in the Pacific Northwest operation, which remains a key strategic center of product development and distribution.

Sakata Seed America, established in 1977, is a major research, seed production and marketing-distribution subsidiary of Sakata Seed Corporation. Sakata Seed America serves as the headquarters for the North and Central American operations. Dave Armstrong, president-CEO of Sakata Seed America and Alf Christianson Seed Co., will continue in his role with the newly merged entity.

"This merger accelerates our strategy and positions us to win by offering even greater value to our customers and partners," said Armstrong. "In addition to the clear benefits of fully integrating two highly complementary organizations and product families, we can create substantial value through operational efficiencies and access to new growth opportunities. Together, we look forward to shaping the industry for years to come."

Alf Christianson Seed Co., a wholesale seed company, was founded in 1926 and specializes in the breeding, production and distribution of vegetable seed.

The company is a leader in the breeding of beet, spinach and chard varieties, currently marketed under the Chriseed brand. Alf Christianson Seed Co. was acquired by Sakata Seed Corporation in 2002. In the subsequent years, Alf Christianson operated as a subsidiary of Sakata Seed America.

Ken Reid, Facility Operations Manager for the Sakata Seed America's Pacific Northwest Operations, comments, "This merger will streamline our business in both North America and internationally and allow us to serve our customers better. Under the new organization, stakeholders can still expect the same great service from the same great people. We look forward to continued growth from our Pacific Northwest operations."