End of an Era for Strube

The traditional breeding company Strube, based at the foot of the Harz Mountains, is now entirely owned by the French. Strube, which has been under the majority ownership of the French Deleplanque Group for the past six years, is now fully transitioning to French control.

A 150-Year Legacy Concludes

This sale marks the end of nearly 150 years of history for the Strube family business, rooted in Söllingen, Lower Saxony, and Schlanstedt, Saxony-Anhalt. Alongside Deleplanque, the German seed processor SUET also recently joined Strube.

Strube's Financial Restructuring in 2016

In 2016, Strube faced financial difficulties and required restructuring following legal disputes with its former Belgian partner SESvanderHave. By 2018, two companies with long-standing business ties to Strube purchased the breeder: SUET Saat- und Harvesttechnik GmbH from Eschwege acquired a 40% stake, while Deleplanque took a 60% stake. Since then, the company has operated under the name Strube D&S.

Deleplanque Acquires Full Ownership

In May 2024, the Deleplanque Group announced its intention to acquire 100% of Strube D&S. According to AgraEurope, the agreement with SUET is expected to be finalized by the second half of the year. The French aim to focus more on breeding operations and seed innovations with this acquisition. Consequently, they sold their fertilizer business to Sani, a part of Veolia Agriculture France, at the beginning of May.

Strategic Integration and Future Focus

Deleplanque President Eric Verjux stated, "The implementation of these two projects will enable Deleplanque Group companies to better integrate and benefit from synergies." This move will strengthen the group's position as a leading force in the international seed industry, particularly in sugar beet, vegetables, wheat, and sunflower seeds.

Strategic Development and Goals

Strube's Managing Director Hervé Caroff emphasized that the complete takeover and the strategic development behind it would help the company achieve its goals in the sugar beet markets.

The acquisition of Strube by the Deleplanque Group highlights the evolving dynamics in the agricultural sector, where strategic partnerships and acquisitions are key to maintaining competitiveness and innovation. As Strube integrates into the Deleplanque framework, its historical legacy and expertise will continue to influence the future of plant breeding and seed production.