Cibus Fund II, a sustainable agri-food investment fund, has acquired a majority stake in PSB Producción Vegetal, a leading stonefruit breeder. The acquisition will drive the development of high-quality, climate-resilient fruit varieties to meet the evolving demands of producers, consumers, and the supply chain. PSB, founded in 1989, has a portfolio of 74 patented varieties and 51 more under development, including peaches, nectarines, apricots, and plums. The company’s research and development (R&D) integrates advanced molecular marker techniques and a hybridization program to develop fruit varieties with superior flavor, disease resistance, and adaptability to climate change.
The investment from Cibus Fund II will accelerate PSB’s R&D capabilities and global expansion, supported by strategic guidance from industry veterans. The partnership aims to address global food security, sustainability, and climate change adaptation through advanced plant breeding. PSB’s recent advancements include the development of disease-resistant stone fruit varieties, enabling healthier production with a lower environmental impact.
The acquisition is seen as a significant milestone for PSB, with CEO Stéphane Buffat retaining a stake in the business and continuing to run it. Buffat believes the partnership will enhance PSB’s breeding programs through technological innovation and expand into new markets, delivering exceptional fruit varieties that will delight consumers and empower growers. Rob Appleby, founder and CIO of Cibus Capital, commented that partnering with PSB places the fund at the forefront of natural breeding in the high-value fruit sector, with enormous potential to expand its impact globally and transform the fruit industry with next-generation varieties.
The investment highlights the critical role of advanced plant breeding in addressing global challenges, including climate change adaptation and sustainability. With the support of Cibus Fund II, PSB aims to create climate-resilient crops that ensure sustainable food supply chains in a rapidly changing world. The partnership is expected to drive growth and innovation in the fruit industry, delivering benefits to producers, consumers, and the environment.