In April 2025, the investment fund Cibus Fund II announced the acquisition of a majority stake in the Spanish company PSB Producción Vegetal, a specialist in stone fruit breeding. This strategic move significantly expands Cibus’s agri-biotech portfolio and strengthens its position in the European market for sustainable and climate-resilient crop innovation.
Deal Overview
Cibus Fund II, managed by Cibus Capital, has acquired a controlling interest in PSB Producción Vegetal, one of Spain’s leading breeders of peaches, nectarines, and other stone fruits. While the exact transaction value has not been disclosed, market analysts estimate the deal to be worth between €20 million and €50 million, based on PSB’s scale, intellectual property, and commercial reach.
PSB is recognized for its advanced plant breeding and genetic selection techniques, aimed at developing high-yield, disease-resistant, and superior-tasting fruit varieties that are also adapted to shifting climatic conditions.
Strategic Significance
The acquisition allows Cibus to:
- Deepen its presence in the agri-biotech segment;
- Expand its footprint in Southern Europe;
- Access PSB’s proprietary varieties and research capabilities.
Importantly, PSB integrates sustainable breeding approaches, including drought tolerance, pest resistance, and reduced reliance on chemical inputs—aligning perfectly with the growing global demand for eco-efficient agriculture.
Product Development Potential
Bringing PSB into the Cibus portfolio unlocks opportunities to:
- Accelerate time-to-market for new varieties;
- Scale up research and development;
- Expand international commercialization and licensing.
PSB currently holds over 80 registered fruit varieties across EU markets, with many offering exclusive distribution rights and genetic innovations protected by plant variety rights.
Market Impact
This acquisition is expected to serve as a launchpad for future growth:
- Expansion into Central and Eastern Europe;
- Introduction of licensing models for growers and nurseries;
- Collaboration with academic institutions and ag-tech partners.
According to industry forecasts, Cibus could increase the revenue performance of its biotech segment by 15–20% over the next 3–5 years, driven by diversified crops and consistent demand for climate-adapted fruit.
Financial Rationale and ROI
Cibus Fund II focuses on sustainable agriculture, food security, and green technologies. Prior to the PSB acquisition, its portfolio included assets in the UK, France, the Netherlands, and Italy.
Biotech investments of this nature typically yield an average annual return of 8–12%, with higher upside when scientific assets are successfully commercialized. In PSB’s case, a return on investment (ROI) within five years is considered achievable due to strong IP and market potential.
Next Steps and Expansion Plans
Following the transaction, Cibus plans to:
- Expand PSB’s facilities in Valencia and Murcia;
- Launch export programs targeting North Africa, Latin America, and the Middle East;
- Invest up to €10 million in laboratory upgrades and field trial systems.
Plans are also underway to create a joint R&D hub focused on next-generation cultivars with:
- Low water consumption;
- Natural pest resistance;
- Extended post-harvest shelf life.
Conclusion
Cibus Strengthens Agri-Biotech Portfolio with PSB Deal is more than a financial investment—it marks a pivotal shift toward data-driven, climate-smart agriculture. The transaction highlights the transformation of the food production value chain from conventional farming to high-performance genetic innovation.
In a world increasingly affected by climate change and food insecurity, the partnership between Cibus and PSB sets a strong example of how biotech and investment can align to meet the challenges of the future.
