...the KWS group's strategy and further growth
“KWS has grown moderately but continuously in recent years. Net sales have increased from just under €400 million in 2002 to more than one billion euros in the past fiscal year. In addition, the workforce has more than doubled – to about 5,000 now – and has become far more international. We want to continue that trend and increase net sales by an average of five to ten percent per annum, as well as achieve an EBIT margin of at least ten percent. At the same time, we will remain true to our maxim: to grow profitably, predominantly organically and sustainably – without mergers and, now and then, with suitable acquisitions. To enable that, we will continue to invest: worldwide in the research and development of new varieties, in new sales structures, in the modernization and expansion of production facilities, and in digitizing relevant business processes.”
... KWS’ economic situation
“Against the backdrop of complex political, economic and societal challenges in Germany and the world, KWS calmly went about its work last fiscal year. The group remains in sound economic shape. We have a solid financial base, which means we are well prepared for upcoming investments, while KWS’ setup as a partnership limited by shares will expand our opportunities to raise funds and thus ensure support for further growth.”
… KWS in the age of digitalization
“Apart from breeding high-performing varieties for our customers – farmers – and consulting on all matters relating to the sustainable use of resources, Farming 4.0 is a growing focus for KWS. The choice of crop rotation is one of the most vital tasks in modern agricultural management in order to preserve soil fertility for the long term. Moreover, the balance between arable farming and biodiversity is a key and recurrent social issue. That’s where digital technologies, such as precision farming and farm management systems, come in. Site-specific farming maximizes yield potential and means the use of resources, energy and labor can be reduced – resources that are increasingly in short supply. These activities are supported by automated documentation, which saves time and results in transparent, efficient operating processes. With our broad variety portfolio and digital tools, we meet our customer’s needs now and moving ahead – with tailored solutions and worldwide.”
