Strategic Acquisition Enhances Genetic Resources and Innovation Capabilities in Citrus, Mango, and Avocado Varieties
Sun World International LLC has announced the acquisition of the Biogold Group, a prominent global fruit variety rights manager based in South Africa, operating under the name Citrogold. This strategic move is set to enhance Sun World’s position in the global market by integrating Biogold’s extensive citrus genetics portfolio with its own leading expertise in table grapes and stone fruit.
The acquisition of Biogold, renowned as a global supplier of citrus genetics, includes their extensive mango and avocado breeding programs. This merger is expected to significantly boost the innovation capabilities and growth potential of both companies.
David Marguleas, CEO of Sun World, emphasized the strategic alignment, noting that this acquisition was conducted with careful consideration to maximize benefits for their producer licensees. He described the alliance as a powerful accelerator for both companies, facilitating a seamless integration due to the strong existing operations and leadership teams.
Viresh Ramburan, who will continue as Vice President, Global Licensing, Citrus and Subtropicals at Biogold, echoed Marguleas’s sentiments, highlighting the immediate growth opportunities created by the acquisition. He noted that the combined expertise in managing fruit breeders’ genetic assets would benefit both parties and their customers, including fruit breeders and growers. According to the report, Biogold will maintain its operations without any staff reductions, and key management, including trusted advisor Abraham Van Rooyen, will remain in place.
Founded in the late 1990s, Biogold has grown from a small group of individuals into a significant player in the global citrus market. The company expanded internationally in the 2000s and became part of ANB Investments (Pty) Ltd., a leading South African enterprise with diverse agricultural holdings. Today, Biogold operates in major citrus-producing regions worldwide, including South Africa, the U.S., Europe, and South America.
This acquisition is the culmination of five years of strategic targeting by Sun World, which began prioritizing citrus, mangoes, and avocados in 2019. These crops have seen substantial retail growth and are highly demanded by consumers globally. The integration of Biogold’s portfolio is expected to dramatically enhance Sun World’s genetics offerings to over 2,700 licensees, ensuring a comprehensive range of desirable genetics for new and existing customers.
Zak Laffite, President of Wonderful Citrus, expressed high regard for Biogold’s varietals, anticipating significant industry benefits from the combined strengths of Sun World and Biogold. The acquisition signifies a pivotal moment for both companies, positioning them for robust future growth and expanded influence in the global fruit market.
This significant move by Sun World is not just a business expansion but a strategic enhancement of their genetic resources, aimed at delivering superior quality and innovation in the fruit industry. The integration of Biogold’s resources is expected to create a formidable entity with two strong revenue streams, further solidifying their leadership in the market. As noted by Marguleas, this disciplined acquisition is set to provide exponential value and a clear growth pathway for the combined entity.
