Nunhem-based facility expected to be completed by the end of 2028
BASF’s vegetable seeds business is to invest €40mn in modernising and expanding its seed processing facility at its headquarters in Nunhem, the Netherlands. The company said the strategic project underlines its long-term growth ambitions and its commitment to maintaining a leading global position in the vegetable seed market.
Construction is scheduled to begin in the second quarter of 2026, with completion by the end of 2028. The new state-of-the-art facility will enhance the company’s ability to deliver high-quality vegetable seeds that meet the expectations of growers in the Netherlands and around the world.
A ceremony held to mark the start of construction was attended by the mayor of the municipality of Leudal, Désirée Schmalschläger, and project partners. “For more than 110 years, BASF Nunhems has shaped the economic landscape of our region. Still known to many as Nunhems Zaden, the company has grown into a strong international player recognised for its innovative seed varieties,” Schmalschläger said. “We greatly value the company’s long-term commitment to the municipality of Leudal and its contribution to employment and regional development.”
The company’s existing seed processing facility currently covers approximately 20,000m2. Seeds produced throughout BASF Nunhems’ global supply are shipped to Nunhem for cleaning, processing, testing, and final preparation before distribution to customers worldwide.
As part of the investment, the total operational footprint in Nunhem will increase by approximately 6,000 m2. Once completed, the processing facility will be fully powered by renewable energy, resulting in more energy-efficient operations with significantly lower emissions.
“This investment reflects our dedication to continuous innovation and to delivering high-quality vegetable seeds that support our customers’ success,” said Frank Claessens, managing director Nunhems Netherlands and vice president operations. “It also confirms that Nunhem remains the heart of our business operations, bringing together deep local expertise with a global outlook.”
The investment includes the renovation of two existing processing buildings, upgrading two current operational areas, and the construction of the new facility. It will feature state-of-the-art equipment and processing technologies to store, pack and ship seeds with greater precision and efficiency. Enhanced quality assurance infrastructure will enable high-capacity testing to ensure that all seeds meet the stringent expectations of growers.
