Beck's Hybrids and Pioneer Hi-Bred Enter into Research and Distribution Agreements

ATLANTA, Ind. and DES MOINES, Iowa, June 17, 2009 - Beck's Hybrids and Pioneer Hi-Bred, a DuPont business, announced today they have entered into research and distribution agreements to bring additional corn and soybean products to growers in the marketplace. Under these agreements, Beck's and Pioneer will collaborate in research efforts and in the distribution of corn and soybean seed under XL brand.

"Teaming with Pioneer, one of the premier germplasm development programs in the world, enables synergy between us to identify seed products that excel in Beck's geography," said Scott Beck, vice president of Beck's Hybrids. "These agreements allow us to create, test and identify new hybrid combinations that give our growers a new source of elite products, while maintaining our family ownership, independence and freedom to operate."

"We are truly excited about this business relationship with Beck's Hybrids to broaden our marketing footprint by utilizing one of Pioneer's core strengths, our world class genetics," said Frank Ross, vice president and regional director, North America. "Both companies will benefit and we will also enhance the choices of technologies and genetics available to the grower."

Beck's Hybrids tests germplasm from around the world to select the products that are specifically adapted to its marketing area. This agreement does not limit Beck's Hybrids from using technology or germplasm from any other entity.

As part of the PROaccess^sm business strategy, Pioneer has developed customized business agreements with independent seed companies to address their specific needs. Pioneer manages the PROaccess^sm business strategy relationships separate from its Pioneer brand. Under this strategy, the seed marketed and distributed by companies, such as Beck's, will be unique and not available from Pioneer sales reps. In turn, Pioneer® brand products are only available from Pioneer sales reps.

Beck's Hybrids is a family-owned and operated seed company that serves farmers in Indiana, Illinois, Ohio, Michigan, and Kentucky. According to a recent media survey, Beck's ranks as the sixth largest seed company in the United States and the only one in the top six that is family-owned, making Beck's the largest retail family-owned seed company in the U.S.

Pioneer Hi-Bred, a DuPont business, is the worlds 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.