3 minute read
Pioneer celebrates 95 years
from ProAgri SA 255
by ProAgri
Pioneer celebrates 95 years by Tharien Hendrikse, Pioneer SA Marketing & Communication Specialist
Advertisement
Pioneer has been changing and shaping the agricultural world for 95 years. What started as an idea for hybrid corn in 1926 grew into the leading Pioneer® seed brand we know today — one of the most robust, technical and scientifically advanced agricultural brands on the planet. Pioneer was incorporated in 1926 by Henry A Wallace as The Hi-Bred Corn Company, in Johnston, Iowa. Wallace believed that the potential for increased corn yields lay in the direction of hybridisation, or the inbreeding and crossing of different varieties of corn plants to produce a more healthy, durable stock. He was convinced that growing corn from hybrid seed was the way of the future and that there was a vast marketplace for the product once farmers could be convinced of its benefits. The company later changed its name to Pioneer Hi-Bred Corn Company and then Pioneer Hi-Bred International, Inc as it began to operate on a global scale. For nearly a century, Pioneer’s efforts have resulted in increased productivity, more sustainable practices and the introduction of agricultural improvements in areas previously thought to be out of reach. In that time, Pioneer has solidified itself as one of the most successful, recognisable brands, not just in agriculture, but globally. Pioneer today is the global flagship seed brand of Corteva Agriscience – with a purpose to enrich the lives of those who produce and those who consume, ensuring progress for generations to come. “We are proud of our company’s strong history, and the leadership role that Pioneer has had in agriculture – advocating for farmers, investing in communities and promoting sustainable farming solutions,” said Jim Collins, Chief Executive Officer, Corteva Agriscience. “We are committed to providing farmers with the most innovative products and services on the market so that they can grow the crops we need to feed a growing world.” Pioneer’s Long Look business philosophy, that was written in 1952, is what grounds the brand’s way of doing business. Four simple statements which have guided our attitude toward re-
search, production and marketing, and will always remain true to the worldwide network of Pioneer employees: • We strive to produce the best products in the market. • We deal honestly and fairly with our employees, sales representatives, business associates, customers and stockholders. • We aggressively market our products without misrepresentation. • We provide helpful management information to assist customers in making optimum profits from our products.
Pioneer shortened timeline:
1926
1952
1981
1992
2014
2017
2019
Henry A Wallace incorporates the Hi-Bred Corn Company “The Long Look” business philosophy is written Pioneer becomes the seed corn market share leader in North America Register Pioneer Hi-Bred in South Africa Opening of World Class Research Facility and Insectary in Mpumalanga Opening of Hoogekraal Dry West Research Facility Pioneer becomes the flagship seed brand for Corteva Agriscience
Farmers today still buy Pioneer brand products based on proven performance and high technical services. These products and seed-focused expertise are delivered through trusted advisors who are not only employees and associates, but are the Pioneer family. Pioneer has unparalleled choices of seed products, currently consisting of maize, soybean, sunflower and canola hybrids in South Africa – with a history of proven performance. The brand has over half a century’s experience of agronomy know-how in the field. This local knowledge grows exponentially every year because of new technologies and research and the intense focus on seed. Field days are focused on individual farmer connection and demand creation. Pioneer is “Made to Grow™” because it continues to evolve and lead positive change for farmers – supporting farmers’ growth alongside the brand. Pioneer was one of the first hybrid seed companies in the world and is still one of the most successful, recognisable brands around the globe. Pioneer will continue to remain as the trusted seed brand that we are proud of. You will keep on seeing our trusted Pioneer seed in our trusted Pioneer bags, supported by our Long Look Pioneer promise. The Pioneer brand you know today remains the Pioneer brand of the future.
