The Designed Genetics Duroc is popular in the Americas and Asia, where it has a reputation spanning more than 25 years. The company will be fully integrated into and become part of Hypor, the swine breeding division of Hendrix Genetics.

Antoon van den Berg, CEO of Hendrix Genetics and Managing Director of Hypor views this purchase as a natural next step in Hypor's stated ambition to develop the world wide market position of Hypor and deliver a complete portfolio of the highest quality genetics to a demanding market.

He said: "With Designed Genetics joining the Hypor family, our customers will see accelerated improvement in our products and will benefit from the experience and knowledge of this pioneer in Duroc breeding. With our existing Duroc population, we have brought together the best of the best."

Gerjan van Alst, General Manager of Hypor North America said: "The Duroc breed provides robust, fast growing animals for producers. Just as importantly, it is a superb choice for meat producers looking for improved meat quality. We expect the inclusion of Designed Genetics into Hypor to accelerate our growth path in the Americas."

Primary shareholder of Designed Genetics, Paul Riese, along with his family will remain active with Hypor post acquisition.

He commented: "We are excited and proud that Hypor will carry on a company tradition of excellence well into the future and feel that our stakeholders are well served with this step.

"We recognise and are sincerely grateful for the commitment of all the people instrumental in the development of our business."