Agronomy
Our passion for sharing the science of making crops grow better, is one of our strongest differentiators. For us, agronomy is one of the clearest ways we outperform the market. We work earlier, closer and longer with farmers than anyone in our industry. We are a leading expert in developing barley varieties to withstand the conditions of every major barley region in the world.
First in the field
We spend years investing in farming communities before construction of a new malthouse even begins. We cultivate strong relationships with growers and work with farmers to adapt farming practices to local soil and climate conditions. By working directly with breeders we develop the best barley varieties to support farm development and secure consistent, high-quality local barley. This long-term investment in local supply chains is what sets us apart.
All around the world
Wherever barley is grown, our agronomy experts are on the ground so that they understand local climates, soil conditions, crop risks and grower challenges. Few maltsters can combine this level of local field presence with the strength of a global malting network. This ability helps us support farmers more effectively and help secure their long-term futures as growers of local, sustainable barley.
Best barley varieties
We have worldclass breeder technologies and a worldwide network of over 100 trial sites, where we test and develop the agronomic and industrial performance of barley varieties that are better adapted to local climates and are resistant to regional challenges like water scarcity. Not only do we support customer approval through industrial-scale pilots in several countries, we also assist with the variety registration and support commercial development by producing and selling seeds.
Meeting the needs of our customers
In our business model, agronomy isn’t a separate service. It is part of how we deliver quality from field to first taste. Our agronomy teams work closely with our sales teams to understand what customers need, from performance and flavour to traceability and sustainability. These insights help guide the selection and development of barley varieties that meet specific customer expectations and support consistent malt quality.
Crop development
Growing malting barley is complex. That’s why we do more than source barley once it is harvested. Instead, we help create the conditions for malt barley to remain competitive. Our agronomists work side by side with farmers through every stage of the crop cycle supporting yield increases, testing and demonstrating agronomic practices, sharing technical skills and identifying levers for improvement.
Yield forecasting
We help farmers plan varietal renewal and forecast barley volumes, so they can manage climate risks, reduce economic uncertainty, and keep their supply reliable year after year. This level of support is just one of the reasons why our agronomy performance is unmatched.
Regenerative
agriculture
We’re here to help farmers shift toward regenerative practices that protect soils, conserve water, and strengthen resilience. Because we have close relationships with our farmers, we understand their working conditions and can adapt these practices to local conditions for the best results. Sustainable barley malt secures better harvests today and healthier fields for the future.
Creating your sustainability story
Every malt in our portfolio can be customised to suit our customer’s sustainability priorities, starting with sustainable, organic, traceable or regenerative practices at farm level.
Quality assurance
We work with breeders, farmers and brewers to develop the best barley varieties to meet customer expectations and exceed quality standards. At the same time by providing expertise and monitoring at farm level we help secure a consistent, high-quality barley supply for our malthouses.
Partnering with farmers in South Africa
Long before a single brick was laid on our new malthouse in South Africa, our agronomy teams were in the fields, working side by side with developing farmers to build skills and improve yields. By the time the malthouse opens, it will mark almost 10 years of steady, hands-on support preparing them with the knowledge and capacity to grow barley that can stand up to commercial demand and meet our quality and sustainability standards.
Farmer, South Africa
News
Discover how we’re unleashing the power of malt with real stories from around the world.