Seed breeding companies invest millions in Enkhuizen

They have already started at Syngenta. Out of sight of the public road, the piles have been driven into the ground for the construction of a new laboratory. Costs: 7.5 million euros. Just a few years ago, tens of millions were invested in an innovation center.

“We test many seeds for health and are also working to prevent waste. Our activities are growing and growing. And that is why we are blowing up the current laboratory on all sides, which will be a lot bigger,” says Jan Willem Griep, director of Syngenta Netherlands .

Incotec: concentration and sustainability

A little further on at Westeinde, Incotec also has big plans. That company makes coatings with nutrients and protective substances for seeds. In addition to the head office in Enkhuizen, there is now an additional location in Zwaagdijk. They have to move to Enkhuizen, so that everything will be in one place. Moreover, it is also a good time to make things more sustainable on site.

Incotec does not yet want to say what exactly the plan will look like and when construction will start. That decision will not be made until next year. “This year we will make the investment necessary to change the zoning plan, so that we have the space to realize the plans in the future,” the spokesperson said.

The company cannot provide clarity about the costs of the investment, although they are in the millions anyway. “We are a listed company. And because this may be stock market-sensitive information, it is difficult to be specific about it.”

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Enza Zaden is waiting for the municipality to decide

And then there is Enza Zaden. Company wants new greenhouses, laboratories and business premises on their own premises. There must also be a location where seeds can be tested for diseases and resistance.

To make this possible, the zoning plan must be changed. We are waiting for permission from the municipality, which is positive about expansion. Only when the municipality has made that decision can and wants Enza to elaborate on the project and the planning.

Syngenta ready at the end of 2024

Two thousand solar panels must be installed at Syngenta this year. The renovation of the laboratory should be completed by the end of 2024. Although it doesn’t stop there, director Jan Willem Griep explains. “I can assure you. This is not the last investment we make here in Enkhuizen.”

Because the seed breeding companies are certainly not done yet. Climate change in particular requires new technologies. The demand for healthy, varied and sufficient food is greater than ever. Moreover, it is expected that demand will only increase. The changing climate requires vegetable varieties that are resistant to extreme weather conditions and diseases.