Beet campaign 2025 successfully completed
The 2025 beet campaign officially ended on 25 January. With a campaign duration of 140 days and the processing of 7.7 million tons of sugar beet, Cosun Beet Company can look back on a season with good cultivation results. The average sugar content was 17.1%. The expected yield rose to 15.6 tons of sugar per hectare, equaling the record set in 2017. An average of 91 tons of beet per hectare was harvested.
Favorable start, challenging finish
The growing season began under very favorable conditions. Up until around 20 October, field and harvesting conditions were optimal, resulting in low soil tare percentages and strong yield development. From the end of October onwards, however, heavy rainfall in several regions led to more difficult harvesting conditions. Winter weather in January also caused temporary delays in beet deliveries, prompting a reduction in processing speed. Although the campaign was extended slightly, this did not materially alter the overall positive picture.
Market developments and strategic choices
Despite record yields, the sugar market is under pressure. Global sugar prices have fallen further in recent months and supply in Europe is higher than expected.
In order to maintain a healthy balance between production, stock and market position, Cosun Beet Company decided last year to reduce the beet allocation for the 2026 growing year from 100% to 90%. This decision is necessary due to high yields and limited sales opportunities and contributes to a future-proof Cosun Beet Company with good long-term returns for our members.
Maikel van Bakel, CEO of Cosun Beet Company, explains: ‘We are proud of the excellent results of this campaign, but we also need to look ahead. By focusing on production volume and market balance now, we are ensuring a healthy position for our members and the cooperative in the long term.’
With this strategic choice and the completion of a successful 2025 campaign, Cosun Beet Company is focusing on the coming season and continuing to invest in growth, sustainability and cooperation with growers.