HELM completes full acquisition of Unium Biosciences Ltd.

HELM began the acquisition of Unium in 2021 and in May of the following year, the parties jointly agreed that HELM would acquire 100% of Unium by February 2026. This full integration strengthens HELM’s long-term commitment to developing and scaling next generation biologicals for growers worldwide-term commitment to developing and scaling nextgeneration biologicals for growers worldwide-term commitment to developing and scaling nextgeneration biologicals for growers worldwide.

Unium brings a highly validated research foundation. This extensive scientific platform has built a robust evidence base, supporting consistent product performance and practical on-farm application. Integrated with HELM’s global infrastructure, this scientific foundation accelerates the development, scaling, and international deployment of advanced biological solutions. Combining Unium’s scientific expertise with HELM’s global infrastructure and market access, the collaboration will accelerate innovation and broaden availability for growers.

Jacob Shreve, HELM Executive Vice President Crop Solutions says: “The integration of Unium into HELM marks an important step forward for our Crop Solutions strategy worldwide. Unium’s proven scientific innovation particularly in biologicals and signalling‑compound technologies perfectly complements HELM’s international reach, expanding our global portfolio and accelerating the development of advanced, sustainable crop solutions. Together, we will strengthen continuity for existing Unium customers while expanding access to high‑performing, research‑driven technologies across the UK, Europe and global agricultural markets. This acquisition reinforces our long‑term commitment to supporting growers with reliable, high‑value solutions that deliver real impact in the field.”

John Haywood, Unium Biosciences managing director, says: “We’re committed to integrating biological products with conventional crop production, combining targeted chemistry with a whole-system biological strategy to improve crop resilience, efficiency and sustainability, without sacrificing profitability. Becoming part of HELM gives Unium the platform to scale our technologies globally while remaining focused on science-led innovation.”

The announcement comes against a backdrop of increasing pressure on crop production, driven by rising disease and pest challenges, regulatory scrutiny of traditional chemistries, and downstream market demands for more innovative solutions. At the same time, global food demand continues to rise, with the world population forecast to reach over 9 billion by 2050, while arable land per person continues to decline, according to UN data. 

Together, HELM and Unium are building a truly global platform to deliver the next generation of biological innovations—supporting growers with practical, scalable solutions that meet the demands of a changing world. 

About Unium
Unium is a science lead innovator in the biologicals, bio stimulants, specialty fertiliser and alternative crop protection industry. The company is based on plant physiology, linking research with practical modern agriculture providing growers with hi-tech affordable ways to maximise crop production. Unium is very aware of the changing needs in the global agricultural market and strives continually to provide innovative solutions.
Learn more: https://www.uniumbioscience.com/ 

About HELM AG
HELM AG is a global, family-owned chemical distribution and marketing company headquartered in Hamburg, Germany, with operations in more than 30 countries. HELM is active across chemicals, fertilizers, energy materials, and pharmaceuticals, combining international market reach with deep technical and supply chain expertise. The company is committed to advancing sustainable solutions and responsible chemical supply chains, supporting innovation in circular economy technologies and low-carbon industrial processes worldwide.
Learn more: https://www.helm.com/