Bayer is changing its go-to-market approach for branded crop protection and seed products, with Simplot Grower Solutions set to exit distribution and retail sales of Bayer-branded products beginning with the 2027 season.
“As farmers’ needs continue to shift, Bayer actively works with our dealer network to ensure we collectively provide the value customers deserve,” a Bayer spokesperson said. “Bayer’s relationship with Simplot will be evolving beginning with the 2027 season. We look to continue working with Simplot in new ways moving forward.”
In response to the news, a Simplot spokesperson said the company had no comment on Bayer’s decision to change its go-to-market strategy. It is understood that Simplot’s Innvictis seed line will continue to have licensing access to Bayer Corn States genetics.
Simplot Grower Solutions operates across a broad geography, with legacy strength in the West and Pacific Northwest and a much larger Southern and Southeastern presence following its acquisition of Pinnacle Agriculture. That deal expanded Simplot into important row-crop regions across the Delta, Mid-South and Southeast, complementing its established business in Western irrigated and specialty-crop markets.
Bayer emphasized that dealers remain an important part of its distribution strategy.
“Distribution and retail sales of Bayer-branded crop protection products and seed remain a critical part of our business and our success,” the Bayer statement continued. “Dealers remain an important part of our distribution model, and we value the role they play in delivering the best, most complete solutions to the farmer.”
The company said it remains focused on farmer success through dealer partnerships, innovation, and on-farm support.
“Bayer is focused on enabling farmer success in partnership with dealers, by combining our industry-leading innovation and the robust pipeline of technology that’s coming with a best-in-class customer experience,” the statement said. “This best-in-class customer experience is enabled by innovation, strategic partnerships, and on-farm support by Bayer, across seed and crop protection. We continue to seek the best partners to deliver these products and services to our customers.”
