Biobest has announced that it has entered into an agreement to acquire Real IPM Kenya, a leading company in biological control in East Africa
With this move, Biobest, a leading global player in pollination and biological control, aims to create a strong foothold in East Africa. Biobest is expected to benefit from the deal by gaining access to local infrastructure to produce biopesticides in Kenya.
According to statements from the companies, the transaction is due to close in early 2017, subject to authorisation by the competition Authority of Kenya and other regulatory approvals.
Henry Wainwright, the company’s co-founder said in a statement, “We passionately wanted to bring affordable and effective biological solutions to African farmers. Thanks to a strong and committed team, a broad product portfolio with several beneficials and unique biopesticides, and a diverse and loyal customer-base in Kenya, Ethiopia, Tanzania, South-Africa and beyond, we can be proud of our success. Opportunities for further growth abound, but for us the time has come to start preparing for a phase in life during which we can dedicate more time to our family.”
Wainwright will continue on as general manager of Real IPM Kenya for the next two years to ensure continuity and a seamless transition.
Biobest CEO Jean-Marc Vandoorne commented, “Our goal is to serve the needs of growers on a worldwide basis in our strategic crops. East and Southern Africa is a hotspot for floriculture and horticulture, but also for citrus and other open field crops. With Real IPM Kenya we immediately play in the premier league in this part of the world."
He reiterated that together the two companies can offer more comprehensive and more effective solutions, in line with the needs of the African farmer. “The product portfolio of Real IPM Kenya, and its partner company Real IPM UK, is also complementary to ours in other markets. Finally, it is a major competitive advantage to have a strong production infrastructure in East Africa. Local customers enjoy good quality and competitive prices in view of the excellent production conditions for biocontrol agents in this region. That explains why it is really difficult to be strong in the local market without local production.”
