Florensis, Graines Voltz and Ball Horticultural Company announced today that they are in discussions to combine forces in the European market.

As a result of these discussions, these three entities intend to combine operations and activities in several key European countries. This alignment will further strengthen market presence and provide a more robust solution to customers. It is envisioned that the following activities will occur:

• In Germany and the Netherlands, Dutch-based Florensis will take over the offices and activities of Ball Holland and Ball Deutschland and merge them into the Florensis entities in these two countries. In addition, Ball would acquire an equity participation in the Florensis continental operations.
• In the UK, Florensis UK would become a joint venture between Ball and Florensis.
• In France, Graines Voltz, the exclusive distributor of Florensis, would acquire Ball Ducrettet.

"The combined activities of these three family-owned companies would create the best use of assets and capabilities." said Herman Hamer, CEO of Florensis.

Serge Voltz stated, “The creation of a strong partnership among the three companies would allow Graines Voltz to build upon its solid foundation of products and service to growers.”

Anna Ball, president of Ball Horticultural Company, said, "This move is designed to benefit growers with better service and innovative products and solutions."