DuPont’s Pioneer Hi-Bred  business has opened a new state-of-the-art canola production facility in Lethbridge in Alberta, Canada, to meet increased demand for its high-performing Pioneer® brand canola hybrids.  The addition of the new seed production plant is part of the business’s strategy to be the canola market leader by 2012.

“The investments we have made in canola research are paying off in increased sales,” said Paul Schickler, DuPont vice president and general manager and Pioneer president.  “This new plant, along with recent enhancements to our distribution strategy, will ensure our customers are provided what they expect from Pioneer – a consistent, reliable supply of high-quality, high-performing seed.”

DuPont recently announced that its Pioneer and crop protection businesses have teamed up to increase points of sale in Western Canada.  Pioneer will increase its seed production acreage by 58 percent in 2008 to meet increased demand for its canola hybrids. 

The new USD 12 million plant also includes office, warehouse and bulk storage space and will handle all aspects of Pioneer® brand canola seed growing, cleaning, conditioning, packaging and distribution.  Specifically designed for hybrid canola, the plant covers 30,000 square feet and currently employs more than 20 people.  The plant is accredited by ISO 9001 and the Canadian Seed Institute.