Hendrix Genetics and Sofiprotéol have signed and completed an agreement in which: (a) Sofiprotéol acquired 12% of the outstanding share capital and related voting rights in Hendrix Genetics B.V. and becomes a long term strategic shareholder; (b) formed a strategic alliance in which the parties will focus on growth and consolidation opportunities in global animal breeding and life sciences and (c) Hendrix Genetics S.A.S. acquired France Hybrides S.A.S, a French swine genetics company, from Groupe Glon. It will be integrated in its swine genetics division Hypor.

Michel Boucly, Director Business Development at Sofiprotéol, who will join the Hendrix Genetics International Advisory Board, commented, "Once our discussions started, it became clear that we share the same values and vision. Sofiprotéol is committed, as a long term strategic partner, to support Hendrix Genetics in its ambitions."

Thijs Hendrix, president of Hendrix Genetics, said, "We are pleased and proud that Sofiprotéol joins our group as a long-term strategic investor. I am confident that together, we create a new platform with a new horizon in animal breeding and life sciences."

Eric Philippe, CEO of Groupe Glon, added, "We made the choice to become a partner of Hendrix Genetics in order to raise synergies from both companies in terms of technical and commercial expertise, in a market where players are now acting on a worldwide basis.

"In France, France Hybrides genetics and its breeds will still be distributed by Sanders. This partnership will provide benefit to our integrated pork industry and to our clients who will have access to high potential genetics, which includes the latest technologies," said Mr Philippe.