PIC has entered into definitive agreements with Olymel LP, Genus plc announced on Feb. 24. Olymel LP is a leader in the Canadian agrifood industry, providing genetic products and services in connection with the Olymel’s AlphaGene porcine genetic improvement program.

Olymel, the largest pork producer in Canada, has capacity for more than 185,000 pigs per week. Under the transaction, PIC has acquired all intellectual property in Olymel’s elite porcine genetics for a consideration of Canadian $25 million, a release said.

The parties have also entered into an exclusive long-term genetics collaboration agreement, where PIC will supply elite germplasm and manage the ongoing genetic improvement of Olymel’s AlphaGene genetics. 

“PIC will use its proprietary genetics, technologies and services to accelerate genetic gain consistent with Olymel’s strategic genetic goals. Olymel will continue to distribute the AlphaGene genetics through its internal multiplication program and to its independent producer herds in Canada,” PIC said in a release.

The collaboration combines PIC’s expertise in porcine genetic improvement with Olymel’s leading porcine production facilities, enabling Olymel’s customers to benefit from improved AlphaGene health, efficiency and breakthrough technologies. 

“We are excited to be working with Olymel, the leading Canadian pig producer, with a focus on differentiated product quality,” Bill Christianson, COO of PIC, said in a release. “The complementary nature of PIC’s leading genetics, and Olymel’s significant production facilities will benefit customers of AlphaGene genetics throughout the porcine production pyramid.”

PIC said the collaboration with Olymel increases PIC’s footprint in the Canadian porcine genetics market and will better allow both parties to serve pork producers across Canada. 

“PIC is a world leader in porcine genetic improvement, demonstrating the improved value, health and efficiency of animals from their genetics programs year after year,” Paul Beauchamp First Vice-president, Olymel LP, said in a release. “With this collaboration we intend to accelerate performance of our AlphaGene genetics, providing increased value for all of our customers.”