Barenbrug Holding BV, the Dutch parent of leading grass seed breeders, Barenbrug UK, has started 2002 by announcing several strategic developments to consolidate its position and bring even greater benefits to turf professionals throughout Europe.
Barenbrug Holding BV has appointed Mr K.A. Bleeker to its Board of Directors. He will succeed Mr H.J.M. Barenbrug as Chairman on 1st March. Mr Barenbrug will then relinquish his position to join the Supervisory Board of the Barenbrug Group. Mr Bleeker has worked with Norsk Hydro for over 25 years, fulfilling senior management positions in various European countries.
The company is to sell part of its research station at Wolfheze in Arnhem, Holland – one of many research establishments owned by the Group – and will open new trial facilities at additional locations having different soil types. This will enhance the opportunities for Barenbrug researchers to develop grass cultivars that meet conditions relating to specific locations.
Finally, at a time when the Euro’s introduction has had a unifying effect throughout most of Europe, Barenbrug is to merge its divisions operating in Holland and Belgium. This will avoid duplication of activities such as production, transportation and administration and will give more effective use of resources. Separate sales teams, however, will be retained.
The Barenbrug Group is shortly to celebrate its centenary. It has 25 subsidiaries on 5 continents and with an annual turnover of over 163 million Euro (approximately £100 million), is among the largest grass seed companies in the world. Throughout its 97 years of trading the family-owned Barenbrug Holding BV has always returned a profit, with 2001 continuing this trend.
Barenbrug UK www.barenbrug.co.uk