Bayer dives into the strawberry arena

Sep 22, 2023

The world of strawberries welcomes a significant player: Bayer. The company announced its entry by acquiring assets from the UK's National Institute of Agricultural Botany (NIAB). This acquisition allows Bayer's Crop Science Division to venture into the flourishing protected strawberry sector.

Strawberries have become a supermarket star, with their sales capturing more than 23% of the fresh fruit segment. Inci Dannenberg, Bayer’s Vegetables business head, underscores the growth potential in this market.

NIAB's rich history in strawberry research is noteworthy, having a legacy over 40 years at the Kent County-based East Malling Research Station. With Bayer stepping in, NIAB's CEO, Mario Caccamo, envisions enhanced innovation and global accessibility to their high-quality strawberries.

One highlight of Bayer's approach is protected cropping. This method grants growers enhanced management over their crops. It minimizes environmental threats, optimizes water use, and offers strawberries with an extended shelf life, owing to localized growth.

Bayer's strategic approach extends beyond just the acquisition. As JD Rossouw of Bayer's Crop Science Division shares, the company’s expertise in precision breeding will be channeled to elevate the strawberry market even further.

The berry-fresh collaboration is anticipated to wrap up by January 1, 2024.

Source : wisconsinagconnection

Video: Fendt Testimonial | Fendt 726 Vario Gen7 | Peter Watson Jones Ltd.

What happens when a farm buys its first Fendt? For Peter Watson Jones Ltd, the Fendt 726 Vario Gen7 has exceeded expectations from day one. For Jack, Farm Manager at Peter Watson Jones Ltd in North Shropshire, UK, the Fendt 726 Vario Gen7 wasn't just another tractor purchase. It was the farm's first experience with the Fendt brand.

Operating across a 1,200-acre arable farm alongside a 250,000-head broiler enterprise, the business has evolved significantly over the last decade, moving to a straight arable system with fewer staff and machines. Since arriving on the farm, the Fendt 726 Vario has established itself as the main drilling and cultivations tractor, earning its place through performance, versatility and efficiency. Whether it's handling large-scale cultivations or working with a new 4.5m strip-till drill, the tractor continues to impress.

Jack highlights its excellent manoeuvrability, operator comfort and ability to deliver strong pulling power at low engine speeds. The result? Outstanding fuel efficiency without compromising performance. Reliability has also been a key factor, with dependable backup from the team at TR Machinery helping to keep the tractor working when it matters most.

?? Watch as Jack shares why the Fendt 726 Vario Gen7, the farm's first Fendt, has made such a strong impression and become an integral part of their operation.