Celebrating a century in the agricultural industry, Rijk Zwaan achieved a 6% increase in revenue during its 2023/2024 fiscal year, reaching a net total of €627 million. This growth, spanning all regions and crops, demonstrates the company’s enduring success in the global seed market, where it now commands a 10% share. With a net profit of €80 million, up from €60 million the previous year, Rijk Zwaan is leveraging this financial momentum to reinvest in its future, positioning itself as a leader in sustainable agriculture and food security.
One of the company’s major achievements this past year was a record-breaking investment of €143 million into infrastructure, particularly in its Seed Connect Centre, scheduled to open in 2025 at its headquarters. This state-of-the-art facility will enhance Rijk Zwaan’s capacity for seed cleaning, processing, and packaging, addressing rising global demand for high-quality seeds. CEO Ben Tax highlighted the significance of this investment: “The new facilities will enable us to meet increasing demand and strengthen our ability to provide growers worldwide with premium seeds.”
Research and development have been key pillars of Rijk Zwaan’s operations, accounting for approximately 30% of its annual revenue. Over 2023/2024, the company allocated €191 million to R&D, with a strong focus on new crop breeding programs. A notable milestone was the inauguration of its new breeding facility dedicated to developing strawberries, blackberries, and raspberries, a strategic move to support Rijk Zwaan’s entry into the berry sector.
The 100th anniversary of Rijk Zwaan was a major highlight of the fiscal year. In July, the company was honored with the royal title of “Koninklijk” (Royal) by the King’s Commissioner, marking the first time Rijk Zwaan has received this prestigious designation. According to Ben Tax, “This royal title is a testament to the societal value we bring and the dedication of our employees, past and present. Our people—more than 4,000 worldwide—are the heart and soul of Rijk Zwaan, driving our success across generations.”
As Rijk Zwaan looks toward its second century, it aims to maintain a stable growth trajectory by offering an extensive variety of high-quality fruits and vegetables to farmers, consumers, and supply chain partners globally. With sustainable growth as a priority, Rijk Zwaan is optimistic about expanding its role in advancing global agriculture.
Rijk Zwaan’s 100-year milestone is more than a celebration; it reflects a century-long commitment to agriculture and innovation. By investing in cutting-edge facilities and expanding its R&D efforts, Rijk Zwaan is not only meeting current demands but also shaping the future of crop development. As it continues to grow, the company remains focused on supporting farmers and enriching the agricultural landscape worldwide.
