AFBI - Commercialisation of AFBI-bred Forage Grass Varieties

Description

The Agri-Food and Biosciences Institute (AFBI) (Client) has a requirement for the provision of Commercialisation of AFBI-bred Forage Grass Varieties (Contract). AFBI is Northern Ireland’s largest science and technology organisation and an internationally renowned multidisciplinary scientific organisation, based at seven locations across Northern Ireland. In line with their Vision of providing “Scientific excellence delivering impactful and sustainable outcomes for society, economy and the natural environment”, AFBI works with a range of partners to provide scientific solutions to the global challenges of climate change, food security and environmental protection. Their staff undertake scientific research, surveillance, and analytical and diagnostic testing for a wide range of customers in the fields of sustainable agricultural systems, animal health and welfare, plant science, food innovation and safety, environmental protection, fisheries and aquatic ecosystems and agricultural and rural economics. The AFBI grass breeding programme, based in Loughgall, Northern Ireland, produces locally-adapted ryegrass varieties for a range of forage grass markets, but primarily for the UK and ROI markets. The programme, which has been in place since 1952, has a long history, and a strong reputation in the marketplace. The programme has been extremely successful. As of 2025-26, there were 22 different AFBI-bred ryegrass varieties on the Irish and UK recommended lists. There were also a number of varieties on recommended lists in other European countries. The average annual number of AFBI varieties that have been accepted onto Recommended Lists over the past 10 years is approximately 2.5, demonstrating the consistent performance of new AFBI varieties. Suppliers should refer to the Specification Schedule for full details relating to the deliverables of this contract. Neither CPD nor the Client can provide any guarantee as to the level of business and/or expenditure under this Contract. Suppliers should note that they may be tendering at risk as this procurement could be withdrawn at any stage.