#Agriculture #GreenhouseFarming #Agribusiness #AgriculturalInnovation #EcoCulture #FarmAcquisition #AgroInvest #LEDTechnology #SustainableAgriculture
In a significant development, the Federal Antimonopoly Service (FAS) has given the green light to the sale of 99% shares of “Agro-Invest” and “My Summer” to “Alliance.” According to the FAS Telegram channel, this transaction is not expected to hinder competition in the relevant markets. Both acquired entities are part of the “Agro-Invest” group, featuring a year-round greenhouse complex covering 107.5 hectares in the Kaluga region. Approximately 70,000 tons of greenhouse vegetables, evenly split between cucumbers and tomatoes, are cultivated annually, as reported by “Technologies of Growth.”
The primary owner of “Agro-Invest,” with an 89% stake, is the diversified holding company, “Avilon.” The group claims leading positions in the automotive and real estate sectors, making significant contributions to fresh vegetable production and supply. “Avilon” also encompasses restaurant and hotel businesses.
The buyer, “Alliance,” is 99.9% owned by Maxim Mikheev, formerly a co-owner of “Dary Prirody,” associated with the “Eco-Culture” holding until 2021. Despite conflicting reports, “Eco-Culture” denies any plans or association with the acquisition of “Agro-Invest” and “My Summer.”
According to “Agroinvestor” sources, “Agro-Invest” boasts a modern and successful greenhouse complex fully operated on LEDs, a rarity in Russia. The complex is equipped with high-end gas piston stations, exceeding average investment costs at 300-340 million rubles per hectare compared to the industry standard of 200-240 million rubles per hectare. This investment approach aims to achieve high yields, and the “My Summer” brand enjoys recognition in retail markets.
However, substantial initial investments may impact production costs and depreciation. Additionally, potential challenges for the new owner involve the aging of LED technology, which has been in use for four to five years. Despite this, if “Eco-Culture” emerges as the buyer, a key player with experience in the market, the integration of assets into existing operations is expected to be seamless.
Tamara Reshetnikova, CEO of “Technologies of Growth,” believes the deal is advantageous for “Eco-Culture,” acquiring the largest modern complex in Russia with a robust marketing team. Based on an estimated price of 2-2.5 million euros per hectare of greenhouse, the deal’s value ranges from 215 million to 269 million euros (21.1-26.5 billion rubles).
The approved acquisition signals a transformative phase in the agricultural sector, ushering in new possibilities and challenges. Stakeholders must closely monitor the integration process and its impact on the future of greenhouse farming in Russia.
