Rijk Zwaan has opened its latest breeding greenhouse in Dinteloord, the Netherlands, dedicated to developing new berry varieties.
The state-of-the-art greenhouse boasts advanced climate control, energy-efficient systems, and sustainable practices, providing ideal conditions for year-round research and breeding. The official opening took place on Friday, June 21.
Official Opening
The ceremony was attended by Rijk Zwaan colleagues and construction partners, who toured the new facility.
“Our new breeding greenhouse is a major step in our mission to innovate in fruit and vegetable breeding,” said Michiel Zwaan, Crop Manager Berries at Rijk Zwaan. “It allows our team to conduct year-round research in optimal conditions, accelerating our berry breeding program.”
New Berry Breeding Program
Rijk Zwaan, active in vegetable breeding since 1924, launched a berries breeding program last year to expand its portfolio with strawberries, blackberries, and raspberries.
Breeding Manager Pieter Egelmeers explained: “Traditionally, berries are propagated vegetatively rather than from seeds. We’re focusing on both methods in our breeding program. Using our expertise in research, breeding, and seed production, we aim to bring innovative strawberry, blackberry, and raspberry varieties to market, adding value for growers and other partners.”
Gift at Breeding Station Opening
During the opening, construction partner Van der Hoeven made a generous gesture. CTO Menno van den Brink stated: “We are proud to support Rijk Zwaan’s innovative efforts in berry breeding. Corporate social responsibility is important to us, and we’re pleased to contribute to the Sibusiso foundation in Tanzania. As suppliers, we present a collective gesture to benefit this foundation during the opening of Rijk Zwaan’s new breeding station.”
