French pig breeder Groupe Grimaud, based in Roussay, will obtain 100% ownership of Newsham Choice Genetics, based in Des Moines, IA, USA in February 2010.
Presently, Newsham Choice Genetics has three ownership entities: Bucolica, the Netherlands based group which includes partner Groupe Grimaud of France; the Mitchell family; and some Newsham management personnel.
Frederic Grimaud, president of Groupe Grimaud, said: “This ownership change indicates our dedication and support for the Newsham Choice Genetics business and their ability to create genetic change at an unprecedented rate to meet the demands of the swine industry. We also see a real opportunity to extend Newsham business worldwide through the global network of our group as well as a larger cooperative emphasis in R&D innovation and development.”
Groupe Grimaud
Groupe Grimaud, inclusive of Newsham Choice Genetics, employs approximately 1,500 people and forecasts about US$290 million in 2010 revenue, doing business in more than 100 countries worldwide.
Mark Weaver, DVM, Co-CEO of Newsham Choice Genetics said, “Profitability in today’s pork production industry is intimately tied to breeding stock choices and genetics. Technologically, Newsham Choice Genetics leads the industry in proprietary marker-assisted selection that provides for accelerated genetic improvement to pork producers. Groupe Grimaud currently utilises this same technology in broiler selection and is committed to Newsham Choice Genetics’ continued growth in technology and products.”
Newsham’s current management team will continue serving in their current roles.
Related websites:
• Newsham Choice Genetics
• Groupe Grimaud