Cibus Fund II, as Advised by Cibus Capital, Accelerates Innovation in Global Stone Fruit Industry with Majority Stake Acquisition in PSB Producción Vegetal
Murcia, Spain, April 2025 — Cibus Fund II, a leading sustainable food and agriculture investment fund, today announced a strategic majority stake acquisition in PSB Producción Vegetal, a global frontrunner in proprietary fruit genetics and stone fruit breeding. This landmark deal positions PSB and Cibus together, to drive the future of climate-resilient, high-quality fruit varieties that meet evolving grower, consumer and supply chain demands.
Founded in 1989 and headquartered in Murcia, Spain, PSB has revolutionised stone fruit breeding with a portfolio of 74 patented varieties and 51 more under review, spanning peaches, nectarines, apricots, plums and expanding into table grapes and cherries. PSB’s cutting-edge R+D integrates advanced molecular marker techniques and a hybridisation programme—working with up to 120,000 new hybrids to develop fruit varieties that boast superior taste, disease resistance and adaptability to challenges presented by climate change, such as low chill requirements and extended seasonality. Under the leadership of Stéphane Buffat who will retain a stake in the business, the company will continue with the same vision and philosophy, supported by the continuity of all executives and professionals within the breeding program.
PSB’s advances are reshaping the global fresh fruit market by delivering varieties that reduce chemical inputs, enhance shelf life and optimise supply chain durability. Its commitment to flavour and sustainable agriculture has made it a trusted partner for growers, marketers and retailers worldwide. The company’s recent breakthroughs include the development of disease-resistant stone fruit varieties that help growers combat threats like sharka virus and powdery mildew, enabling healthier fruit with lower environmental impact.
Cibus Fund II’s investment will accelerate PSB’s R+D capabilities and global expansion, supported by strategic guidance from industry veterans Dr. David Buckeridge, former CEO of Advanta, and Garth Swinburn, ex-senior executive at Sun World. This partnership underscores the critical role of advanced breeding in addressing global food security, sustainability and climate adaptation.
Rob Appleby, Founder and CIO of Cibus Capital, emphasised: “Partnering with PSB places us at the forefront of natural breeding in the high-value fruit sector. Its pioneering work is vital to creating climate-resilient crops that secure sustainable food supply chains in a rapidly changing world.” He added: “PSB exemplifies world-class improvement and sustainability. We see tremendous potential to scale its impact globally, transforming the fruit industry with next-generation varieties.”
PSB CEO Stéphane Buffat, remarked: “This partnership marks a milestone for PSB. With Cibus’ backing, we will enhance our breeding programmes through technological innovation and expand into new markets, all while delivering exceptional fruit varieties that delight consumers and empower growers. PSB is characterised not only by the leading varieties but also the professional excellence of the individuals within the company. The international perspectives and support of Cibus will act as an exciting foundation for the growth and development of the young and talented team.”
Jason Silm, Partner and Head of Agriculture of Cibus Capital, noted: “Cibus are excited to partner with Stéphane and his industry leading team. Our sector expertise, networks and value creation playbook will help PSB to innovate, internationalise and pivot into high growth super fruit categories. PSB is the perfect platform to bridge between consumers and growers with enhanced genetics.”
The transaction, with Cibus Fund II advised by Uría Menéndez and KPMG and PSB advised by Garrigues and Baker Tilly, is expected to close in Q2 2025, pending regulatory approvals.
About Cibus Capital:
Cibus Capital LLP is a London-based sustainable food and agriculture investment firm advising over USD 1 billion. Founded in 2016, the Cibus funds invest in companies transforming the food and agriculture value chain towards commercial viability, sustainability and resilience across Europe, the USA and OECD countries.
About PSB Producción Vegetal:
Headquartered in Murcia, Spain, PSB Producción Vegetal is a pioneering fruit breeding company specialising in proprietary stone fruit varieties with superior agronomic performance and consumer appeal. With R+D facilities in Spain and France, PSB serves a global network of growers and licensees, driving innovation that balances flavour, sustainability and market demands.
