Sakata America announces joint venture with Kientzler family, acquires Guatemala farm

Sakata America Holding Company announced the formation of Tikal LLC, a joint venture established in partnership with the Kientzler family of Germany.

The joint venture will operate under the name Innovaplant de Guatemala S.A., marking a significant expansion of Sakata’s footprint and long-term investment in North American ornamental young plant production.

Sakata America Holding Company is part of the global Sakata Seed Corporation, which specializes in the research, production and distribution of vegetable and ornamental genetics. Kientzler is a family-owned German  plant breeding and propagation company.

As part of this collaboration, the joint venture has acquired a 45-hectare (108-acre) farm in San Pedro Pinula, Guatemala. The new facility will feature state-of-the-art greenhouses and advanced infrastructure to support the propagation of Kientzler, Sakata and other genetics.

The initial development phase includes the construction of 2 acres of pilot greenhouses, with substantial upgrades currently underway across the site to optimize operations and production efficiency.

Trial production is scheduled to begin in fall 2025, followed by the launch of commercial production in fall 2026. Byron Calderon has been appointed general manager of Innovaplant de Guatemala S.A. and will oversee all aspects of facility management, production and organizational development.

“This investment represents a significant milestone for our company, contributing to our long-term vision in the horticulture industry,” said Dave Armstrong, executive chair of Sakata Seed America.

Andreas Kientzler, president of Kientzler, added, “We are excited to combine our expertise and resources with Sakata to drive innovation and excellence in the supply of great young plants to the industry.”