Denso Corp., a Japanese automotive parts manufacturer, is reportedly in advanced discussions to acquire Axia Vegetable Seeds Group, a seed supplier backed by Singapore’s investment firm Temasek, for about US$500 million.

Sources familiar with the matter indicate that Temasek currently holds nearly half of Axia’s shares, is expected to profit from the sale.

Neither Denso nor Temasek has commented on the negotiations. Axia, based in the Netherlands, did not respond to inquiries outside regular business hours.

This potential acquisition aligns with Denso’s strategy to diversify into agriculture and food production. The company aims to generate 20% of its revenue from non-automotive ventures, including agriculture, as part of its initiative announced in 2023.

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🔗 Source: Bloomberg

🧠 Food for thought

1️⃣ Auto parts suppliers are diversifying amid industry transformation

Denso’s move into agriculture reflects a trend among automotive suppliers seeking growth beyond their traditional business.

The company currently generates over 98% of revenue from auto parts, but aims to have 20% come from “new value business” including agriculture, illustrating the scale of this strategic pivot 1.

This diversification strategy aligns with the projected growth of agtech markets, which are expected to expand from $30.63 billion in 2024 to $34.58 billion in 2025, a 12.9% growth rate 2.

Denso’s history as a Toyota spin-off in 1949 shows the company has previously navigated major industry transitions, evolving from an electrical equipment manufacturer into a comprehensive automotive supplier 3.

The acquisition of Axia Vegetable Seeds complements Denso’s 2023 purchase of greenhouse maker Certhon Build BV, demonstrating a methodical approach to building an integrated agricultural technology portfolio.

2️⃣ Controlled environment agriculture represents a high-growth opportunity

Denso’s entrance into seed supply and greenhouse technology aligns with forecasts showing the indoor farming market growing from $37 billion in 2024 to $68 billion by 2029—a 12.9% compound annual growth rate 4.

The company’s modest 2% share of the ¥700 billion ($4.9 billion) greenhouse market offers substantial room for expansion, particularly as controlled environment agriculture gains importance in addressing climate change challenges.

Precision agriculture technologies, which include greenhouse systems, are projected to reach $22.49 billion by 2034, growing from $9.86 billion in 2024 5.

Denso’s development of fruit and vegetable picking robots reflects broader industry trends toward automation in agriculture, with the agricultural automation and control systems market expected to grow at 10.55% annually 6.

This strategic positioning allows Denso to leverage its existing expertise in robotics, sensors, and control systems from automotive applications into the rapidly growing agricultural technology sector.

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