Daniel Zingg of Andermatt: The next decade of biologicals will be decided in the field

As global agriculture enters a decade defined by climate instability, regulatory transformation, and unprecedented technological acceleration, few companies stand as clearly at the intersection of science and sustainability as Andermatt.

From pioneering microbial solutions to developing next-generation biological technologies at a global scale, the Group has emerged as one of the most influential voices shaping the future of sustainable food systems. At the center of this evolution stands Daniel Zingg, Group CEO, who leads Andermatt’s international network during a period of rapid expansion, tightening regulatory frameworks, and rising expectations from farmers, institutions, and markets alike. Under his leadership, the company has strengthened its global footprint, deepened its research and development capabilities, and positioned biological innovations not as complementary tools, but as core pillars of modern agriculture.

Daniel Zingg speaks exclusively to Giorgos Bakolas, farmer and journalist.

G. Bakolas: Global agriculture is entering a decisive decade, in which biological solutions are expected to deliver measurable impact, reliability, and environmental value. What is your long-term vision for Andermatt over the next five years, as food systems demand greater efficiency, full traceability, and quantifiable sustainability outcomes?

D. Zingg: The next decade will define how quickly biologicals move from being “alternative” to “essential.” For Andermatt, the next five years are about maintaining flexibility, proving real value in the field—not just on paper, and staying true to our vision of bringing biological solutions to the next level.

Biologicals must deliver measurable impact and full traceability. Our role is to provide products farmers can rely on and to build a system where sustainability outcomes are quantifiable and meaningful. Flexibility, authenticity, and real-world performance will guide us toward 2030.

G. Bakolas: The European Union is shifting from a compliance-based regulatory model to an incentive-driven sustainability framework. Can Europe realistically lead the next generation of biological technologies?

D. Zingg: Europe has the potential to lead—provided that regulatory ambition is matched with pragmatism. We see positive momentum toward faster approval pathways for bioprotectants and incentive-based sustainability frameworks. Andermatt aims to play a constructive role: delivering high-quality biological solutions, contributing scientific expertise, and demonstrating that sustainable solutions can work reliably at scale.

G. Bakolas: Digital agriculture, climate variability, sensor-based monitoring, and data platforms are reshaping production systems. Do you see Andermatt evolving into a biological & data-driven agritech provider?

D. Zingg: Digital agriculture will increasingly enhance biological performance—through better timing, improved risk management, and stronger validation.

For now, our primary focus remains biology. We are open to strategic partnerships with technology providers. Over time, an integrated “biological & data-driven” model may emerge—but it will be built step by step, always grounded in our core strength: biology.

G. Bakolas: Scalability across broad-acre cropping systems is critical for global food security. How prepared is Andermatt to lead this transition?

D. Zingg: We strongly believe in biologicals for broad-acre crops and already see solid commercial success. However, direct competition with large agrochemical companies should be avoided, as margin pressure, long payment terms, and market access play to their strengths. Our priority is differentiated solutions, not replication. Sustainable and reliable growth matters more than rapid scale.

G. Bakolas: Greece combines Mediterranean climate stress, fragmented farms, and rising demand for climate-adapted technologies. Can it serve as a pilot market?

D. Zingg: Greece represents a highly important landscape, with distinct conditions that make it a strong testing ground for improving productivity and strengthening climate resilience. It is a strategic market for the Group—one from which we continuously gain valuable insights by addressing diverse and demanding challenges.

In Greece, we are pleased to have established a very strong Andermatt presence through our partnership with Anthesis. The Andermatt Anthesis team stands among the Group’s leading subsidiaries, distinguished by its highly experienced and specialized professionals, a robust portfolio of biological solutions, and a broad, long-standing, value-driven customer base.

Greece serves as a source of inspiration for solutions and ideas, not only for Southern Europe but also for Andermatt’s subsidiaries across the rest of the world.

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G. Bakolas: The biologicals sector is rapidly consolidating. How does Andermatt preserve its innovative identity?

D. Zingg: Independence is essential. It allows us to make long-term decisions, protect our scientific culture, and leverage the strengths of the Group. We will continue to innovate with integrity and remain an independent, mission-driven global leader in biological solutions.

Agriculture today must prove everything from environmental value to economic resilience. The discussion around biologicals can no longer rely on promises or narratives. As this conversation shows, the real test lies in field-level reliability, consistency toward growers, and the ability to evolve without losing identity.

Andermatt does not position itself as part of a trend, but as an organization committed to long-term building in a sector defined by rapid and often contradictory change. The transition to sustainable agriculture is not a leap, but a measurable, demanding process, deeply connected to the farmer’s daily reality.

Ultimately, the coming decade will be judged not on how green solutions look on paper but on whether they stand up where everything is tested: in the field.