At the World Seed Congress in Rotterdam, we had the opportunity to engage in a thought-provoking discussion with Marcel Bruins, editor of Seed World Europe. Our conversation centered on the critical need for seed companies like Hazera to foster innovation to address the current challenges in agriculture. We are pleased to share our insights in this article.
Hazera has always been a trailblazer in innovation, introducing segment-defining varieties like tomato Daniela, melon Galia, pointed cabbage Tinty as well as introducing personal size watermelons. Now, more than ever, it is imperative that we continue this strategic approach to meet the diverse needs of growers across global markets.
While the term “innovation” is ubiquitous, at Hazera, it is a core value. Our substantial investment in research and development reflects our commitment to overcoming growers’ challenges and embracing cutting-edge solutions. We integrate disruptive technical tools and leverage next-generation breeding technologies, including DNA sequencing and phenotyping, to expedite our time-to-market. Moreover, we utilize big data, bioinformatics, scientific computing, and other advanced innovations to develop superior varieties. These varieties offer robust performance, higher yield, and enhanced resistance to pests, diseases, and environmental stressors — attributes essential for growers to thrive.
Innovation extends beyond product development to our seed production and processing facilities worldwide. We collaborate with various companies and startups within the strong ag-tech ecosystems of Israel and the Netherlands to identify new production locations less impacted by climate change. These collaborations are crucial in overcoming global agricultural challenges and ensuring a reliable seed supply for growers and partners in over 130 markets.
To further embed innovation within Hazera, we have introduced the role of Global Head of Innovation. This position will be integral in overseeing our innovative activities and aligning them with our business objectives. The focus will be on identifying key areas for transformative innovation and developing strategies to support operational teams effectively.
Our goal is to cultivate a culture of innovation where employees are empowered to generate, test, and implement new ideas. As a proud member of the Limagrain Group, the world’s #1 vegetable seed company, we are driven by perseverance and long-term progress. This commitment is vital for the future success of our growers and the industry at large.
Internally, these are game-changing processes, but the true value of these efforts is evident in the products we bring to the market. As part of Limagrain, which first patented resistance to ToBRFV, Hazera continues to deliver products that both growers and consumers appreciate. Our “Tomatoes that work for you” range, for example, focuses on sustainability for the fresh chain while addressing labor challenges worldwide. Similarly, our new mini seedless watermelon range ensures year-round availability, reducing waste and maintaining high quality. One of the varieties in this range, Exceed, secured the prestigious second place at the Fruit Logistica Innovation Award.
For over 100 years, since the foundation of Nickerson Zwaan in The Netherlands (1925) and Hazera in Israel (1939), our mission has centered on people, partnerships, and ensuring crops and growers thrive. Today, these values drive our priorities; to continue embracing this innovative spirit and remain a pioneering contributor to the evolving agricultural landscape. From research and development to products that growers and customers love, Hazera is committed to supporting growers and their families for years to come.
We invite our partners, growers, and consumers to continue this dialogue during the International Open Days happening in week 39 in Warmenhuizen, Netherlands. Join us to discover our varieties, meet global experts and witness new planting and harvesting techniques. More details are available at https://www.hazera.com/opendays
