Genomic Selection & Elite Cow Breeding: GenMerit’s Approach
A new Swiss company, GenMerit AG, launched February 1st, aiming to advance Brown Swiss cattle breeding through a focus on genomic selection and the preservation of established bloodlines, according to a press release issued February 14th.
Founded by Thaddäus Göhl, Werner Duss, Tom Salzgeber, and Marcel Steinauer, GenMerit intends to connect breeders and genetics across Switzerland, Germany, France, Italy, Austria, and the United States. The company’s core strategy centers on developing high-quality breeding lines by utilizing embryos from superior cow families, as detailed by Archyde.com.
Werner Duss, responsible for Zuchtmanagement (breeding management) at GenMerit, explained that the company’s approach goes beyond simply pairing animals with high genomic values. “It’s about sustainably developing the breeding lines of breeders,” Duss stated in a press release, “although ensuring embryo breeders retain access to the development of their genetics.”
GenMerit’s work focuses on the Brown Swiss breed, prized for its longevity, high protein and fat content in milk – particularly its Kappa-Kasein BB profile ideal for cheesemaking – and overall fitness and health, according to information published by GenMerit itself. The company intends to make genetically superior animals accessible to other breeders and dairy operations.
The company plans to primarily utilize non-sexed embryos, a strategy explained by Duss and Göhl, to promote advancements on both the male and female sides of the breed. This approach is intended to contribute to an overall increase in the genetic quality of Brown Swiss cattle, both nationally and internationally, with a ten-year goal of measurable improvement.
The launch of GenMerit reflects a commitment to the future of the Brown Swiss breed and the breeders who rely on it, according to the company. The founders believe that a thriving Brown Swiss population benefits all stakeholders. The company’s founders previously held positions at Swissgenetics, with Duss serving as a Sire Analyst for 25 years.
As of February 15, 2026, GenMerit has not announced specific partnerships or breeding programs beyond its stated intention to collaborate with breeders in multiple European countries and the United States.