PepsiCo today announced the acquisition of Dowling AgriTech (DAT), a seed potato business based in Australia, in a move to strengthen seed supply security, drive innovation, and deepen partnerships with potato growers.
The acquisition extends PepsiCo’s investment in the agriculture value chain across the Asia-Pacific (APAC) region. DAT’s variety and seed pipeline, established grower relationships, and reputation for agronomic expertise will support the roll-out of PepsiCo’s sustainable agronomy strategy across APAC.
“This acquisition allows PepsiCo to play a more purposeful role in the seed potato ecosystem, as a long-term partner of choice for seed and chipstock growers in the Asia-Pacific region,” said Colin Matthews, supply chain senior director for PepsiCo APAC.
“By integrating DAT’s capabilities and expertise, we can help secure seed supply and bring innovation to the agriculture sector.”
PepsiCo APAC’s agronomy team will manage the operation and plans to invest in the facility to support continued production of high quality seed potatoes for both domestic and overseas markets.
“This is a great outcome for DAT. It’s business as usual in all respects, yet we’re now part of a global food and beverage company, with a high capacity to drive the business forward,” said Ben Dowling, director at Dowling AgriTech.
“We developed this business with the aim of contributing to potato crop improvement, both in Australia and in export markets.
“Our mission is to produce high quality seed so that each variety can reach its full genetic potential.
“PepsiCo is a strong believer in this and we see strong alignment in intentions and capabilities as we move forward.”