The relationship provides both organizations with improved market access while remaining independently owned and directed. Génétiporc and Designed Genetics' customers will benefit from a broader range of products, improved customer service and enhanced technical support.

Génétiporc, based in Québec, believes this strategic alliance is a positive step consistent with its development strategy. Génétiporc customers will now have access to a broader range of specialized sire lines to complement their maternal and terminal sire programmes.

Christian Breton, President of Génétiporc, says: "This builds on the investment we made earlier this year with the Dynaporc Farms multiplication system and Verus Animal Health Alliance to oversee certain Génétiporc marketing and development activities. Designed Genetics will play a key role in marketing Génétiporc maternal lines and G Performer Boars in targeted markets as well as contribute to the further development of future product lines."

Designed Genetics, based in Manitoba, specialises in the development of Duroc terminal sires and with over 900 purebred Duroc sows in production has evolved into North America's largest purebred Duroc boar provider. Having built strong brand recognition for its sire lines, this alliance now allows DGI to diversify the products it sells by marketing Génétiporc's highly respected maternal lines to its many customers domestically and internationally.

"Now with my sons active in the business the time has come for us to broaden our product lines and expand our business capabilities. We've always believed in the concept of 'genetics for the market' instead of 'the marketing of genetics. This partnership is consistent with this ideology," said owner, Paul Riese.

"By working together in this strategic alliance, both Génétiporc and Designed Genetics will generate economies of scale, new synergies, and added value that will continue to be delivered to their respective clients by two independently owned family businesses with similar passion, commitment, and pride of ownership," said Ron Arnason, President of Verus Animal Health Alliance.

Génétiporc specialises in the production, selection and distribution of breeding stock with superior genetics and health status, thereby ensuring consistent, high-volume supply from a single source. Génétiporc is currently doing business in Canada, United States, Mexico, Dominican Republic, Guatemala, Panama, Chile, Colombia, Brazil, China and the Philippines.

Designed Genetics has specialized in the advancement of Duroc genetics since 1986. Over this time, DGI Durocs have earned a reputation for siring fast growing, efficient, robust, full value pigs with exceptional meat quality characteristics. As a specialized sire line company, Designed Genetics' commitment and focus on Duroc development has helped bring international recognition to the value and importance of the breed.