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We're not just pioneers in vegetable breeding – we're a unique breed of our own. As one of the few independent, family-owned businesses at the top of the industry, our roots run deep. But what truly sets a family business apart?
Jaap Mazereeuw, our Managing Director and third-generation leader, puts it best:
"Family businesses think in generations, not quarters. We innovate boldly, stay financially savvy, and create lasting jobs. Our real superpower? We're not just a family business – we're a family that runs as a business."
Jaap Mazereeuw shares, “With the same entrepreneurial spirit, focus, and passion that my grandfather, Jacob Mazereeuw, had when he founded the company in 1938, we now introduce around 100 new vegetable varieties to the global market every year.” What started as a small seed shop, Enkhuizer Zaadwinkel has grown into a global leader in vegetable breeding proof that strong roots create lasting success. And it's not just our leadership that spans generations. Many of our employees come from families who have worked with us for decades, passing down their expertise like a cherished heirloom.
We believe that being an independent family business is the key to long-term success—and our track record proves it. With steady growth of 9% annually, we've built a future-focused company that stands the test of time.
"Independence allows us to stay true to our vision, make sustainable choices, and adapt quickly to market shifts. It also ensures we can keep investing in innovation, our people, and a greener future," says Jaap Mazereeuw.
"Our employees are the beating heart of our organization," emphasizes Jaap Mazereeuw. With a workforce of over 3,000, we prioritize a social and sustainable personnel policy that nurtures our team's growth. We believe in investing in our people and providing every opportunity for personal and professional development.
With over a hundred vacancies globally available each year, we're always looking for passionate individuals to join our family. Are you curious about how you can grow with us? Check out our Careers and Learning.
At Enza Zaden, we believe that investing in innovation is key to our success. That's why we dedicate a remarkable 30% of our turnover to research and development, ensuring that people around the globe have access to healthy, diverse vegetables.
Our commitment to innovation is more than just a number; it fuels a continuous stream of concepts and products. On average, we launch two new vegetable varieties weekly, keeping our offerings fresh and exciting for consumers everywhere.
As a family business, we prioritize a long-term vision and value enduring relationships. Jaap Mazereeuw explains, “Family businesses think in generations rather than quarterly figures. This mindset influences our corporate vision, investments, personnel policies, and partnerships.”
In the world of breeding, patience is essential. Developing a new vegetable variety can take seven to twelve years, depending on the crop and technology. Our dedication to long-term thinking ensures that we cultivate exceptional vegetables and lasting connections with our employees and partners.
At Enza Zaden, we know that cooperation is the secret sauce that spices up our success—both within our dynamic team and with our cherished partners. As Jaap Mazereeuw puts it, “Our employees work closely in international teams, enabling us to respond quickly and flexibly to ever-changing market trends. Effective coordination with our chain partners is essential to successfully launching new vegetable varieties and concepts.”
But we don't stop there! Our strong relationships with growers, retailers, and trade partners create a thriving ecosystem, while our collaborations with universities and research institutes around the globe fuel innovation. Together, we're not just cultivating vegetables; we're cultivating a vibrant community that's ripe for growth!