DuPont Predicts Strong Advances for Seed Business

Schickler presented the 2012 seed research pipeline that features five product advancements and three program additions as a result of last year's R&D efforts. With many advancing programs close to commercialization, Pioneer also received 39 regulatory approvals in 2011 and submitted another 34 documents pending approval.

Mar 8 2012 --- Innovative technology, local product advancements and a strong 2012 research pipeline have positioned DuPont's seed business, Pioneer Hi-Bred, for continued growth, Pioneer President Paul E. Schickler told attendees at the Goldman Sachs Agricultural Biotech Forum.

"Global trends like an expanding middle class and rapid urbanization in developing economies are driving the demand for food and require constant innovation, global science and local solutions to feeding a growing population," said Schickler.  "Pioneer is dedicated to meeting these challenges and building upon our double-digit sales growth in 2011 with the Right Product Right Acre strategy."

Schickler presented the 2012 seed research pipeline that features five product advancements and three program additions as a result of last year's R&D efforts.  With many advancing programs close to commercialization, Pioneer also received 39 regulatory approvals in 2011 and submitted another 34 documents pending approval.

This year's pipeline advancements underscore Pioneer's success with the Optimum AcreMax family with a wave of insect protection products launching commercially in 2012.  Together Optimum AcreMax and Optimum AcreMax XTRA are anticipated to achieve 65 percent penetration of the company's above and below ground insect protection offering in North America.

"Our ability to innovate stems from our close relationships with growers as we look for new products and new ways to serve our customers," Schickler said.

Schickler used the Brazil soybean product evolution as an example of Pioneer's multi-pronged approach to product development.  Pioneer brand Y series soybeans on the market today have been developed specifically for that country.  Using tools like the Accelerated Yield Technology (AYT) system and continual work with native traits, researchers are developing new varieties yearly with tolerance to local disease pressures.

These products are backed by new technologies in the pipeline such as DuPont Dermacor seed treatment that is expected to provide broad spectrum insect protection starting in 2014.  Combined with local services and agronomic knowledge, this provides growers with a comprehensive product package.