Royal HZPC Group has reported a strong financial performance for the past fiscal year, with CEO Hans Huistra noting that both HZPC and STET achieved growth across key markets. "Higher volumes and prices, in Europe, the Middle East and North Africa, as well as in Asian and American licensed production, led to a total revenue of €525 million. Gross margin rose to €96.4 million. By keeping a close eye on costs, net profit also increased to €17.1 million," said Huistra. The figure excludes costs related to the Connecting Growers program.
The company stated that these results translate into higher returns for growers. The dividend per certificate increased to €10.90, following a record payout previously announced to certificate holders who are also co-owners of the group.
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Huistra said that while the company is satisfied with the past year's performance, the new season presents challenges. "The drop in free market prices at the end of last season, combined with challenges in the European table potato markets and several key export regions, shows that the current year will be demanding, especially for free varieties," he said.
The company reported continued growth in newer varieties across segments. In the French fry segment, Quintera, Travolta, Invictus, Cardyma, and Castor performed well. Norman and several STET varieties expanded in the chips category, while Rashida and Panamera showed strong development in traditional export markets. In the fresh segment, Libra and Brianna continued to grow alongside European market leader Colomba.
Huistra added that ongoing investments in research and development are yielding results. "Our R&D investments are increasingly paying off, and we continue to invest. Alongside our new varieties, we have a promising pipeline of newcomers that meet our resilience standards. We hope to expand our acreage again this season, both in the Netherlands and internationally. The outlook is positive."
Royal HZPC Group said it plans to continue expanding its global acreage and introducing new varieties aligned with changing market and climate conditions.
© HZPCFor more information:
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