Planasa strengthens position in China by acquiring 100% stake of its local subsidiary

Planasa, the berry genetics company recently acquired by the German conglomerate EW Group, has closed a deal to acquire the remaining 50% stake held by its partners in China, the brothers Martin and Thomas Dabilly, securing full ownership of the business.

(Middle) Michael Brinkmann, CEO, and Roberto Cabezas, Planasa's Corporate Director of Strategic Planning, M&A and Business Development. At their sides, the Dabilly brothers, Martin and Thomas, Planasa's partners in Meiming.

This development cements Planasa's foothold in the large and fast-growing blueberry Chinese market. Planasa's Chinese subsidiary, Meiming, focuses on the nursery and commercialization of Planasa's blueberry varieties, exclusively catering to selected clients with strong presence in the country. Over the past three years, Meiming has experienced remarkable growth, largely driven by the acceptance of these blueberry varieties in the Chinese market.

Michael Brinkmann, the CEO of Planasa, expressed his great recognition and gratitude for the commendable work undertaken by the Dabilly brothers during their management of the business. He also emphasized the company's current preparation for the upcoming phase of expansion, reflecting Planasa's commitment to furthering its global reach.

Planasa's new general manager in China, Jeffrey Fan, poses with a member of his team at the last Asia Fruit Logistica fair.

To spearhead this new chapter, Planasa has appointed Jeffrey Fan as the new Managing Director. He brings a wealth of experience and vision to the role, with a proven track record in the industry. His primary responsibility will be to position Planasa as a relevant player in the fresh blueberry market, solidifying the company's genetics presence in China.

The company thus continues its growth strategy that positions it in the agri-food sector, specializing in the breeding of a new generation of red fruit varieties, through the intensive use of cutting-edge technology combined with traditional crossing techniques.