The foundation stone for the new biotechnology center of KWS Kleinwanzlebener Saatzucht AG at Einbeck in Germany was laid in the presence of the Federal Minister of Education, Science, Research and Technology Dr. Jürgen Rüttgers on June 24, 1997. KWS's new research and communications facility will allow a better integration of conventional and biotechnology methods in plant breeding. The project involves a total investment of around DM 30 million.

In his speech, Minister Rüttgers characterised genetic engineering as one of the key technologies of the 21st century and predicted that "Germany will be the European leader in biotechnology by the year 2000". He called for a reduction of costs for registration processes and more flexibility in
administrative procedures. Rüttgers wished KWS every success for the future and said he is confident that the new research centre would provide a further impetus for biotechnology in Germany.

"New technologies will not completely replace conventional breeding, but they offer a useful supplementary tool," said KWS Board of Management Spokesman Dr. Andreas Büchting to a large audience of politicians and scientists. Using genetic engineering in plant breeding will make it possible to meet future challenges in breeding and to "breed to order": KWS's future biotechnology work will concentrate on healthy plants, improving the use of plant nutrients and expanding application possibilities for plants as renewable resources.

The biotechology centre reaffirms the importance of research and science to KWS and signalises the company's confidence in Germany as location for investment. The "communications hall" will give the interested public an opportunity to see researchers at work. The company will also organise lectures by specialists and other informative programmes: KWS takes "transparent research" quite seriously.

The biotechnology center will offer labs, offices and seminar rooms covering an area of 2,300 m2, plus another 4,000 m2 for technical equipment and climatic chambers. The 500-m2 communications hall will provide space for display panels, exhibitions and video installations and will invite people to find out more about the company and its activities.

The new building is expected to open in April 1999.

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