The J. R. Simplot Company has purchased Florikote, a patented polymer-coated fertilizer technology, from Florida-based Florikan, a wholly owned and independent family business that brought the technology to market in 2008. The two companies will jointly promote and distribute this new controlled-release fertilizer in the worldwide turf, ornamental, and specialty agriculture markets.
According to Florikan, which invented the technology with assistance from the NASA-funded Space Alliance Technology Outreach Program, Florikote utilizes next-generation polymers and manufacturing processes that enable the encapsulation of unique fertilizer materials that previously have not been available commercially. Florikan said the Florikote technology has experienced more than 50 percent year-over-year growth in production volume since its introduction in 2008.
"Florikote is an innovative new technology that will enhance our controlled release product line as we further leverage our BEST and APEX brands within our Turf & Horticulture business," said Jeff Roesler, Simplot vice president of supply and specialty business units. "We will begin integrating the technology into existing production and distribution facilities to expeditiously bring it to customers while establishing the brand in new markets over the long term."
Florikan, which is headquartered in Sarasota and has been in operation since 1981, will continue to operate as an independent business and will manufacture Florikote under a licensing arrangement. Simplot, headquartered in Boise, Idaho, will market the technology exclusively to customers in the western U.S and internationally, while Florikan will exclusively market Florikote in its core horticultural markets in the eastern U. S. and all markets in Florida.
“The partnership with Simplot enables the Florikote technology to impact broader markets while providing Florikan with the resources to expand its business and meet the growing demand of its customer base,” said Jon Rosenthal, a principal with Florikan. “We feel that Simplot, with its deep expertise in controlled release fertilizers, is an ideal partner to support our mission in improving the efficiency of fertilization.”
Simplot AgriBusiness Group president Garrett Lofto said the new technology represents a key breakthrough in nutrient stewardship. "We feel this advanced technology has applications throughout many of our market segments, and we are excited about our newly formed association with Florikan," Lofto said. "Offering controlled release fertilizers supports Simplot’s sustainability initiatives as these technologies fit well with the principles of 4R Nutrient Stewardship."
