Koppert takes over Horticoop’s biological crop protection activities

Koppert Biological Systems will take over the biological crop protection activities of Horticoop B.V. as of 1 November. The takeover includes Horticoop’s customer base, its patents, brands and supplies. Thirty-two employees, including a number of consultants, will make the transfer to Koppert to continue to offer their valuable services to their customers.

At the beginning of 2018, Horticoop approached Koppert Biological Systems’ board and indicated that it wished to change its business strategy by divesting itself of its wholesale activities which included its crop protection services. Both parties then looked for a future-proof solution in which the interests of customers were central. This resulted in an agreement.

Following the takeover, Koppert will be supplying Horticoop’s customers from its own headquarters in Berkel en Rodenrijs as of 1 November. The transition period for this is already in an advanced stage and will scarcely be noticed by customers. Koppert Director Sales Nord West Europe, Arne van Aalst said: “Growers will keep their trusted consultant who will be working intensively with his or her R&D colleagues at Koppert after the transfer. With the expansion of the team of specialists, we draw even more knowledge into the company to further develop new and existing markets.”

The shorter supply chain means the company will be even closer to the customer and his or her demands and challenges. These insights are the key to success in accelerating and improving R&D efforts to the advantage of customers in the entire sector. Koppert is convinced that, together with its customers, it will make the next steps in making the production of fruit, vegetables, and ornamentals more sustainable and successful.
The takeover does not mean Koppert will change its policy in terms of its remaining distributors. “Our distributors are an important link in our network. We have built up a loyal working relationship with them over the years and rely on them to support our growers daily and keep up with the latest developments,” said Arne van Aalst.

Koppert wishes to thank Horticoop for more than 40 years of cooperation. During these years, Horticoop played an essential role in the development, sale and distribution of our products as well as integrated crop protection in general. Koppert wishes Horticoop a successful future.