Potato breeder and seed potato trading house Royal HZPC Group has a strong financial year 2024/25. Global turnover breaks through the €500 million barrier for the first time, while total tonnage exceeds 1 million tonnes. The record turnover is accompanied by higher profits and payout prices for growers. In order to grow even further, HZPC is implementing organisational changes as of 1 July 2025.
The demand for high-quality, resilient potato varieties is driving positive developments in both turnover and prices in all major markets, Royal HZPC Group reports. CEO Hans Huistra explains in a press release: "We expect a turnover increase of over €500 million, a clear growth compared to 2023/2024. In addition, we are realizing a higher gross margin and significantly higher results, which allows us to offer growers attractive payout prices. We are investing heavily in Research & Development and are seeing the results of this in the strong performance of both the physical seed potato trade and the license volumes."
Change of leadership structure
HZPC is changing its leadership structure 'to strengthen collaboration with customers and growers worldwide'. As of 1 July, Peter Ton will be in charge of the Europe, Middle East and North Africa region for both HZPC and STET. Both companies will continue to operate independently within the group. Herman Verveld will be responsible for Global Markets, which includes Asia, North and South America and Africa. Robert Graveland will continue to lead R&D activities. CFO Jordan van Vilsteren will leave Royal HZPC Group on 1 November 2025 after almost ten years. "Jordan has fulfilled his role with dedication and integrity", says Huistra. The successor will be announced shortly.
Contribution to food security
An important milestone is the sale of more than 1 million tons of seed potatoes. Huistra: "Our seed potatoes and our varieties are used as starting material to grow potatoes locally. With our varieties we help farmers worldwide to grow nutritious potatoes, which use water efficiently and can be grown anywhere in the world. Potatoes are crucial for feeding a growing world population."