Potato company Schaap Holland acquires stake in Breeders Trust

In order to continue growing its ambitious, internationally-oriented breeding program responsibly, the family-run potato company Schaap Holland B.V. in Biddinghuizen, acquired 5% of the Brussels-based Breeders Trust shares earlier this week.

Breeders Trust was founded in 2008 to monitor the enforcement of Plant Breeders’ Rights. Every year, millions of euros are invested in the breeding of new and promising potato varieties.

Breeders Trust has been in the news regularly to address infringements on breeder's rights, as well as illegal production, trade, and use. In additiona, the organisation provides information explaining the importance of using certified seeds.

Hans Geling, Director of Consumption and Seed Potatoes from Schaap Holland is thrilled about joining Breeders Trust:
 

“Together with a close-knit group of potato breeders, we invest considerable resources into the development of breeds and research. We therefore appreciate the importance of joining forces in the international arena, to strengthen the enforcement of the rules and regulations around Plant Breeders’ Rights.”

Hans Geling stated that Schaap Holland is confident that Breeders Trust will represent their interests in the proper manner.

Geert Staring, General Director of Breeders Trust, is also pleased with the recent entry of Schaap Holland as a shareholder:
 

“For us, it's a confirmation that we are doing well and it's encouraging to see that Schaap Holland is ambitious with regard to its international breeding programme. This commitment is confirmed by their entry into the Breeders Trust fold.”