PepsiCo has acquired seed potato business Dowling AgriTech (DAT) to strengthen seed supply security, drive innovation, and further strengthen partnerships with potato growers. 

According to PepsiCo, DAT’s robust variety and seed pipeline, long-standing grower relationships, and reputation for agronomic excellence will support the roll-out of its long-term sustainable agronomy strategy across the Asia-Pacific region.  

PepsiCo APAC Supply Chain Senior Director Colin Matthews says this acquisition allows PepsiCo to play a more purposeful role in the seed potato ecosystem, as a long-term partner of choice for seed and chipstock growers in the Asia-Pacific region.

“By integrating DAT’s capabilities and expertise, we can help secure seed supply and bring innovation to the agriculture sector,” he says.  

DAT Director Ben Dowling says this is a great outcome for his company.

“It’s business as usual in all respects, yet we’re now part of a global food and beverage company, with a high capacity to drive the business forward,” he says.  

“We developed this business with the aim of contributing to potato crop improvement, both in Australia and in export markets. Our mission is to produce high quality seed so that each variety can reach its full genetic potential. PepsiCo is a strong believer in this, and we see strong alignment in intentions and capabilities as we move forward.” 

PepsiCo’s APAC agronomy team will manage the operation and has plans to invest in the facility to support continued production of high-quality seed potatoes servicing both domestic and overseas markets.