Cibus Fund II, an investment fund focused on sustainable food and agriculture, has announced the acquisition of a majority stake in PSB Producción Vegetal, a Spanish company known for its work in fruit genetics and stone fruit breeding. The transaction is expected to close in the second quarter of 2025, subject to regulatory approvals.
Founded in 1989 and headquartered in Murcia, Spain, PSB specializes in the development of proprietary fruit varieties. Its current portfolio includes 74 patented varieties, with 51 more under review, across peaches, nectarines, apricots, and plums, along with ongoing expansion into table grapes and cherries. The company uses advanced molecular marker techniques and hybridisation methods to develop varieties with improved flavour, disease resistance, and climate adaptability.
As part of the agreement, PSB CEO Stéphane Buffat will retain a stake in the business, and the company will continue operating under its current leadership and strategic direction. PSB's breeding programme currently works with up to 120,000 new hybrids to address challenges such as low chill requirements and extended production seasons.
The company's recent work includes the development of varieties resistant to diseases such as sharka virus and powdery mildew, aimed at reducing the need for chemical inputs and improving shelf life and supply chain performance.
Cibus Fund II's investment is expected to support PSB's research and development efforts and facilitate expansion into new markets. The partnership also brings industry expertise from advisors, including Dr. David Buckeridge, former CEO of Advanta, and Garth Swinburn, formerly of Sun World.
The acquisition aligns with ongoing efforts in the agricultural sector to improve crop resilience and support sustainable food systems through advanced breeding technologies.
For more information:
Cibus Capital
Tel: +44 (0) 7526 693917
Email: [email protected]
www.cibusfund.com