June 18, 2009

Pioneer Hi-Bred, a DuPont business, and Beck's Hybrids announced they have entered into research and distribution agreements to bring additional corn and soy products to growers in the marketplace.

Under these agreements, Pioneer and Beck's will collaborate in research efforts and in the distribution of corn and soy seed under the XL brand.

"These agreements allow us to create, test and identify new hybrid combinations that give our growers a new source of elite products, while maintaining our family ownership, independence and freedom to operate," said Scott Beck, vice president of Beck's Hybrids.

The business relationship with Beck's Hybrids will help broaden Pioneer's marketing footprint by utilising genetics, one of Pioneer's core strengths, said Frank Ross, vice president and regional director, North America. 

"Both businesses will benefit and we will also enhance the choices of technologies and genetics available to the grower," Ross said.

Beck's Hybrids tests germplasm from around the world to select the products that are specifically adapted to its marketing area. This agreement does not limit Beck's Hybrids from using technology or germplasm from any other entity.

As part of the PROaccesssm business strategy, Pioneer has developed customised business agreements with independent seed companies to address their specific needs. The seed marketed and distributed by companies, such as Beck's, will be unique and not available from Pioneer sales representatives. In turn, Pioneer brand products are only available from Pioneer sales representatives.

Beck's Hybrids is a family-owned and operated seed company that serves farmers in Indiana, Illinois, Ohio, Michigan and Kentucky.