Solynta secures major investment as EW Group takes majority stake in hybrid potato seed firm

NETHERLANDS – Solynta has secured a major growth investment after Germany’s EW Group acquired a majority stake in the Dutch hybrid potato breeding company, strengthening its push to expand hybrid true potato seed technology across global markets.

The companies announced the agreement on January 26, 2026, in Wageningen, the Netherlands. They did not disclose the financial value of the transaction.

Solynta said the new funding will support faster breeding, wider variety development, and global rollout of hybrid true potato seeds. The company aims to increase potato yields while reducing land use and crop protection needs.

Peter Poortinga, Chief Executive Officer of Solynta, said the partnership will accelerate the company’s plans. “We are thrilled to have the significant support of one of the leading investors in the breeding sector, the EW Group,” he said. “Our innovative technology addresses critical agricultural challenges, offering a sustainable solution for potato growers worldwide. With this funding we will continue to accelerate the global adoption of Hybrid True Potato Seeds, improving food security and supporting sustainable farming practices worldwide.”

Hein Kruyt, co founder and Chief Financial Officer of Solynta, said the company’s goal remains focused on long term impact across the potato value chain. “Solynta was founded to become a transformative agricultural technology company, playing a critical role in addressing global food security and sustainability challenges,” he said. “We are excited to continue driving innovation across the potato value chain and to transform potato breeding on a global scale.”

Addressing key farming challenges

Potatoes remain one of the world’s most important food crops, yet farmers face persistent problems linked to slow breeding cycles and reliance on bulky seed tubers that often carry disease. Climate pressure has also increased the demand for more resilient varieties.

Solynta’s hybrid true potato seeds offer a different approach. Unlike traditional tubers, the seeds are lightweight, easier to transport, and less likely to spread disease. The company says this shift can reduce logistics costs and improve access to clean planting material, especially in remote regions.

EW Group said the investment aligns with its broader focus on plant breeding and life sciences. The family owned holding company operates more than 300 subsidiaries across genetics, health, and diagnostics, with activities in over 50 countries and a workforce of more than 28,000 people.

Recognition and broader impact

The funding follows growing international recognition for Solynta’s technology. In November 2025, the company received the BioAg Breeding Solution of the Year award at the BioTech Breakthrough Awards for its non GMO hybrid potato breeding approach.

The company highlighted the broader benefits of its work in a previous statement. “This technology isn’t just about efficiency, it’s about empowerment. Every seed represents a step toward more sustainable, resilient, and food secure communities,” Solynta said.

With EW Group now holding a majority stake, Solynta expects to accelerate its global reach and strengthen its role in shaping the future of potato production, as demand for resilient crops and reliable food systems continues to grow.

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