S&W Seed to Acquire Seed Genetics International for $16M

S&W Seed Company

today announced that it has agreed to purchase 100% of Seed Genetics International Pty Ltd ("SGI"), subject to due diligence and other customary conditions.  The combination of S&W with Adelaide, Australia-based SGI will create the world 's largest non-dormant alfalfa seed company. The transaction, which is valued at approximately $16 million, is scheduled to close in early April 2013 and is expected to be immediately accretive to S&W's earnings. Mark Grewal, president and chief executive officer of S&W Seed Company, commented, "This pact creates a powerhouse that will be unrivaled in its ability to breed and produce non-dormant alfalfa seed all year round. SGI has a tremendous base of contracted growers, very strong customer relationships, and unique genetics. The sales channels that S&W and SGI sell into are highly complementary, with very little overlap in customers. This move considerably strengthens our reach into Argentina and the rest of Latin America." Grewal added, "I also want to stress the 'people factor.' S&W is gaining a highly competitive team of veteran seedsmen whom we know well and highly respect.  We look forward to collaboration with them in all areas. By putting