Pursell Agri-Tech LLC and Oregon agricultural retailer Marion Ag Service Inc. announced on June 6 that they have entered into a strategic marketing agreement that gives Marion market exclusivity to PurKote controlled-release fertilizers, which will be available through Marion Ag agronomic distribution and blending services within 11 states in the western US.
The two organizations have partnered to develop a predictive release software called MASterGraph, which will assist in developing custom-tailored nutrient delivery plans that improve crop, environmental, and financial outcomes for agricultural, turf, and ornamental customers.
“Our vision is to empower customers to succeed in feeding and beautifying the world,” said John Hockett, CEO of Marion Ag Service. “This partnership with Pursell brings that vision into focus and supports our strategic initiative of adding value to our products to increase our geographic reach. We have been working with Pursell controlled-release fertilizers since the mid-90s and are excited to solidify our partnership with them.”
Pursell has been focused over the last five years on developing its customer base east of the Mississippi, said Allen Sanders, Pursell’s Chief Operating Officer. This includes the launch of new production facilities in Savannah, Ga., (GM May 28, 2021) and St. Thomas, Ont. (GM Sept. 3, 2021), in addition to the company’s 150,000 st/y production plant in Sylacauga, Ala. (GM June 8, 2018).
“As we look westward, Marion Ag is the ideal partner to bring the significant market coverage and deep customer relationships needed to successfully develop those markets,” said Sanders. “Our long-standing relationship affirms that our two companies are a great fit culturally, and we know that this will be a great partnership.”
The marketing agreement will begin this summer, the companies reported, with Marion Ag providing a full suite of Pursell products to its customers in Q3 2023.
Based in St. Paul, Ore., Marion Ag is a family-owned business founded in 1976 by Bob Hockett. The company’s three core focus areas are Technical Services, Soil Health, and Nutrient Delivery. Marion received The Agricultural Retailers Association’s Retailers of the Year Award in 2022 (GM Dec. 2, 2022).