The Royal Barenbrug Group is celebrating 120 years since it was founded, having focused on grass seed innovation.
Established by Joseph Barenbrug on the 15th of June, 1904, the family-owned company has developed a portfolio of grass mixes, from forage for livestock, to attractive varieties for parks and gardens, and biodiversity mixes for all-year cover.
In 2004, it was awarded the Royal Predicate, only provided to companies that have shown a level of importance and can demonstrate 100 years of effective business.
Some Milestones in Barenbrug’s 120-year history
- 1904: Barenbrug is founded by Joseph Theodore Barenbrug
- 1908: Publication of the booklet Money in Grasses. This was published in the US market in 1909.
- 1952: Barenza is Barenbrug’s first brand on the variety list. Many more will follow.
- 1979: Barenbrug opens a seed cleaning facility in the USA
- 1983: Barenbrug opens a subsidiary in the UK
- 1996: Barenbrug opens a subsidiary and R&D station in New Zealand and in Australia
- 1997: Barenbrug opens a subsidiary in South America in Argentina
- 2004: During its 100th anniversary, Barenbrug became ‘Royal’, because of the important contribution to the grass seed industry over the last 100 years
- 2011: Barenbrug opens a subsidiary in South Africa
- 2012: Barenbrug opens a subsidiary in Brazil
- 2024: Barenbrug celebrates its 120th anniversary. It is still as passionate about providing the best sustainable grass solutions for sport, forage and recreation as it was back in 1904.
Frank Barenbrug, member of the Supervisory Board, said: “Reaching 120 years is a nice milestone for Barenbrug and it is a testament to our unwavering commitment to innovation, sustainability, and serving the needs of our customers and end-users globally. Our mission to help feed the world sustainably and to enhance green spaces continually drives us to improve and adapt to the changing demands of the industry.”
Bastiaan Barenbrug, member of the Supervisory Board, added: “We are incredibly proud of the legacy that our great-grandfather Joseph Barenbrug started in 1904. Over four generations, we have built on his vision and passion for grass seed development. Today, our global Barenbrug team’s dedication and unique talents continue to set us apart. We look forward to many more years of leading the industry with our cutting-edge solutions.”