Poinsettia breeder Ecke Ranch is joining the Agribio Group, a Dutch-based group of breeding and propagation companies including Fides Oro and Bartels Stek.

“I have been looking for the right opportunity to elevate Ecke Ranch to a new level of excellence,” said Paul Ecke III in a statement. “Our combined companies will enhance the strong brand name, high standards for quality, reliability, and excellence in poinsettia as well as geranium breeding. Our customers are changing rapidly - as a primary breeder and supplier our role is ever-expanding. We need a strong partner to support our continuing innovation and provide our customers more options. Agribio Group is the ideal fit to partner with as we look to the future.”

California-based Ecke Ranch has been breeding and distributing poinsettias for nearly 100 years. For the 2012-2013 sales season, sales and marketing programs will remain as published. Ecke Ranch says they will continue with a ‘business as usual’ approach to support brokers and customers following the closing. Ecke Ranch’s technical support network will continue providing post- sales support to foster customer success.

The transaction is expected to close by mid-September, 2012.

“With this acquisition, Ecke Ranch is well positioned to address the needs of the supply chain,” said Andy Higgins, president of Ecke Ranch, in a release. “Our team remains committed to poinsettia breeding and our customers. Agribio Group will be a catalyst to further our efforts, which will be recognized by our customers through enhanced breeding, innovative supply chain solutions, and more focused retail programs.”

To learn more, visit www.ecke.com or www.agribiogroup.com.