Royal HZPC Group, one of the world’s leading potato breeders and seed potato trading companies, has announced a projected record performance for the 2024/2025 financial year. For the first time in the company’s history, global turnover is expected to exceed €500 million (approx. $538 million), with total global seed potato volume forecast to surpass the 1 million tonne mark.

The announcement highlights the company’s continued global expansion, supported by strong demand for proprietary high-yield, climate-resilient potato varieties across both traditional and emerging markets.

CEO Hans Huistra remarked, “We expect our turnover to increase to over €500 million, a clear growth compared to 2023/2024. Additionally, we will achieve a higher gross margin, substantially increased earnings, and be able to offer high payout prices to our growers. These are all milestones we can be proud of.”

According to Huistra, growth is being driven by both increased physical trade in seed potatoes and continued expansion in licensing volumes. The success is largely attributed to the company’s ongoing investment in Research & Development, particularly in the development and protection of new, improved varieties that are adapted to changing environmental conditions.

Organisational Adjustments to Support Continued Growth

To support further global alignment and strengthen ties with growers and customers, Royal HZPC Group has announced key leadership changes effective July 1, 2025:

• Peter Ton will assume responsibility for the Europe, Middle East, and North Africa region across both HZPC and STET operations.

• Herman Verveld will lead the Global Markets division, overseeing Asia, the Americas, and Africa.

• Robert Graveland will continue to head the Research & Development division, maintaining focus on varietal innovation.

These adjustments are part of the group’s broader initiative to position itself closer to local markets and customer needs, while driving further expansion of production acreage worldwide.

Additionally, CFO Jordan van Vilsteren, who has served nearly a decade in the role, will step down on November 1, 2025. A successor will be announced in due course. “Jordan has fulfilled his role with integrity and dedication,” said Huistra. “We thank him for his many contributions and wish him success in his next chapter.”

A Strategic Role in Global Food Security

Hitting the 1 million tonne seed mark represents more than just commercial success, Huistra emphasized. “With one million tonnes of seed potatoes, we contribute to the agricultural world and the food supply in Europe, Africa, Asia, and the Americas.”

HZPC’s seed potatoes are used as starter material for local cultivation, playing a vital role in global food production. Potatoes, with their high yield per hectare, excellent nutritional value, and low water requirements, are well-suited to meet the demands of a growing population, particularly in regions with limited arable resources.

Huistra concluded, “Royal HZPC Group’s vision is to promote the development of responsible food for the world’s population. That contribution to feeding the world motivates us every day.”

With strong financial momentum, a robust global footprint, and expanded leadership structure, Royal HZPC Group is poised to deepen its role in global food systems and remain at the forefront of potato innovation worldwide.