As Bejo’s exclusive UK distributor, Elsoms is pleased to share news of an exciting development in Bejo’s global leafy crop strategy. Bejo has recently enhanced its celery breeding capabilities through the acquisition of the blanched celery programme previously owned by UK‑based MRL Seeds Ltd. This important step broadens Bejo’s genetic foundation and aligns with its long‑term ambition to deliver a more diverse, resilient and innovative celery portfolio for growers worldwide.
The acquisition includes several well‑recognised varieties – including Enterprise and Endurance – along with a range of promising new hybrids that will enter Bejo’s trial programme in the coming season. These lines bring valuable characteristics such as strong plant vigour, excellent structure and useful tolerance traits, complementing Bejo’s existing smooth, high‑quality celery assortment.
With demand for celery continuing to rise in both fresh and processed markets, the expanded breeding resource puts Bejo in a strong position to accelerate genetic progress and respond to emerging market needs. For Elsoms and our UK grower partners, this strengthens the long‑term pipeline of innovative varieties expected to reach the market in the coming years.
Celery remains a key crop globally thanks to its crisp texture, versatility and nutritional appeal. By integrating the new material into their breeding activities, Bejo will be able to explore fresh directions tailored to growers, supply chains and consumers alike.
Gerhard Völkel, Head of Leafy Crops at Bejo, commented:
“By adding this breeding programme to our portfolio, we are expanding our genetic toolbox and reinforcing our ability to respond to market needs. This acquisition enables us to innovate faster and strengthen our position globally.”
This step supports Bejo’s wider leafy‑crop vision and complements the company’s well‑established identity: “All you need for salad, Bejo has it.” As always, their focus on exploring natural genetic diversity continues to drive innovation.
Bejo will now move forward with the integration process, preparing initial trials across key territories. Over time, growers can expect a broader, more robust celery range.
As these varieties progress through evaluation, Elsoms looks forward to introducing the most suitable selections to the UK market, ensuring growers benefit from the enhanced potential created by this significant breeding investment.
