HZPC: less profit, but more sold

HZPC has recorded a decrease in turnover and profit in the 2017/2018 financial year, compared to last year. However, the total volume of seed potatoes sold did grow. HZPC is cautious and expects lower profits for next year, mainly due to drought.

Net turnover in fiscal year 2017/2018 amounted to €300 million. The gross margin results in €55 million tons, compared to €59 million last year. The net result also decreased: from €8,5 million to €4,7 million. The dividend on the HZPC certificates has been set at €4, which is €3 less than last year.

Little demand in Europe
It is not surprising that the results are less positive. Last year was a record year, in which KWS Potato was also acquired. The demand for seed potatoes in Europe was also poor this year, partly due to the poor prices of ware potatoes last season.

Despite the above, the volume of seed potatoes sold has grown: from 797.000 tons to 816.000 tons. The growth in sales is mainly due to Russia. "Sales there doubled last year," said Gerard Backx, CEO at HZPC, in the press release.

Anne-Jan Doorn

Anne Jan Doorn is an arable expert at Boerenbusiness. He writes about the various arable farming markets and also focuses on the land and energy market.

aj.doorn@boerenbusiness. Nl

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