EW Group, a German-based family-holding company acquired Planasa Group

EW Group, a German-based strategic family holding company, has entered into an agreement to acquire Planasa Group from the international private equity firm Cinven and the Spanish family office, Label Investments.

Planasa is involved in breeding and propagating next-generation berry varieties, including blueberries, raspberries, strawberries, and blackberries, as well as other plant varieties like garlic, asparagus, and avocado.

The company is headquartered in Navarra, Spain, and operates breeding and nursery facilities in multiple locations, serving customers in over 25 countries. Dirk Wesjohann, from EW Group, stated, “The acquisition of Planasa represents a significant milestone for our family group, as it enables us to strategically expand into the field of plant breeding. EW Group has been seeking such an opportunity for years. We believe that Planasa, with its innovative genetic varieties, highly skilled management team, and global presence, provides the perfect platform for EW Group’s expansion into fruit and vegetable breeding.”

His brother, Jan Wesjohann, added, “The global berry market is one of the fastest-growing segments in the fruit and vegetable industry. Our family is excited that through Planasa, we will have the opportunity to enter this attractive market segment. We are committed to promoting sustainable growth in the global berry and vegetable sectors by investing in Planasa’s breeding and nursery capabilities.”

Thilo Sautter, a Partner at Cinven, commented, “Cinven has successfully driven substantial growth at Planasa by investing in its core operations, expanding its global reach, significantly enhancing research and development, and attracting top-tier management talent. We have worked alongside management to transform Planasa from a founder-led business into a leading global agri-tech player. We take great pride in the success Planasa has achieved. The company is well-positioned to continue its positive trajectory, and we wish it success in its next phase of growth.”

Planasa’s CEO, Michael Brinkmann, stated, “The Planasa management team is excited to become part of the EW Group. Being associated with a respected, long-term-oriented family group with a remarkable track record of advancing leaders in the global genetics field through substantial investment in R&D is excellent news for Planasa’s customers, partners, and employees. We eagerly anticipate working closely with our new owners and are confident that this partnership will elevate Planasa’s breeding activities to new heights. We would also like to take this opportunity to express our gratitude to our current shareholders, Cinven and Blue Label Capital, for their unwavering trust and support over the years. It is thanks to their financial backing and strategic vision that Planasa has achieved its current standing”

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