DuPont Opens New Seed Production Plant to Meet Increasing Demand for Pioneer(R) Brand Canola

ALBERTA, Canada, March 27 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- DuPont (NYSE: DD) today announced its Pioneer Hi-Bred business has opened a new state-of-the-art canola production facility in Lethbridge here, to meet an increased demand for its high-performing Pioneer(R) brand canola hybrids. The addition of the new seed production plant is part of the business's strategy to be the canola market leader by 2012.

"The investments we have made in canola research are paying off in increased sales," said Paul E. Schickler, DuPont vice president and general manager and Pioneer president. "This new plant, along with recent enhancements to our distribution strategy, will ensure our customers are provided what they expect from Pioneer -- a consistent, reliable supply of high-quality, high- performing seed."

DuPont recently announced that its Pioneer and crop protection businesses have teamed up to increase points of sale in Western Canada. Pioneer will increase its seed production acreage by 58 percent in 2008 to meet increased demand for its canola hybrids.

The new $12 million plant also includes office, warehouse and bulk storage space and will handle all aspects of Pioneer(R) brand canola seed growing, cleaning, conditioning, packaging and distribution. Specifically designed for hybrid canola, the plant covers 30,000 square feet and currently employs more than 20 people. The plant is accredited by ISO 9001 and the Canadian Seed Institute.

The plant is part of DuPont's strategic plan to grow its seed business globally and specifically to increase its presence in Western Canada, where the majority of North American canola is grown.

Pioneer offers a robust selection of canola hybrids and traits and intends to introduce a proprietary glyphosate herbicide resistant trait under the Optimum(R) brand by the middle of the next decade.

"Pioneer Hi-Bred will continue to use its worldwide resources and extensive investment in research to deliver top-performing canola hybrids," Schickler said. "We will also be there with growers in their communities to provide support, agronomic expertise and leading-edge genetics all through the growing and harvest season."

Pioneer Hi-Bred, a DuPont business, is the world's leading source of customized solutions for farmers, livestock producers and grain and oilseed processors. With headquarters in Des Moines, Iowa, Pioneer provides access to advanced plant genetics in nearly 70 countries.

DuPont is a science-based products and services company. Founded in 1802, DuPont puts science to work by creating sustainable solutions essential to a better, safer, healthier life for people everywhere. Operating in more than 70 countries, DuPont offers a wide range of innovative products and services for markets including agriculture and food; building and construction; communications; and transportation.

The DuPont Oval Logo, DuPont(TM), The miracles of science(TM), Pioneer(R) and Optimum(R) are registered trademarks or trademarks of DuPont or its affiliates.