One of the UK's most popular biostimulant brands has cited rising input costs as the reason for a dramatic increase in sales.

MJP Supplies began offering the seaweed-based biostimulant Algifol in reusable bulk containers (RBCs) in February 2023.

In the last six months, the company has seen demand for the 1,000 litre RBCs increase by a third, with average orders topping 6,000 litres per month in the first six months of 2024.

"When bought in an RBC, the cost per litre is just £10, and that's enough to treat one hectare," says Marcus. "The feedback we have received from farmers and our large-scale liquid fertiliser manufacturers which blend Algifol into their products is that the rapidly rising input costs are behind the move to bulk purchases. People are doing everything they can to reduce their costs and save money wherever possible.

"Like other manufacturers and distributors, we've tried incredibly hard to remain competitive, and thankfully, Algifol's manufacturers have done the same, so the cost of Algifol has not increased this year, which is another factor in its popularity.

"However, the main reason for Algifol's growing popularity is its effect on crops. 2024 has been one of the wettest years in living memory, and when growers have managed to get their crops in the ground, they've been determined to give them the best chance. Aligfol has proven itself over the years to improve crops' resistance to extreme weather, including excessive rainfall."

Algifol is derived from brown algae, which is dried and refined. The result is an entirely natural liquid boasting a wealth of trace elements, vitamins, enzymes, amino acids, carbohydrates, polyuronides and growth-regulating plant hormones. 

Algifol's manufacturer, Neomed Pharma, says the biostimulant is a natural nitrogen source due to the high presence of amino acids and peptides. This makes Algifol ideal for combined use with reduced amounts of N fertiliser. When used with a reduced amount of fertiliser, Algifol naturally improves the nitrogen use efficiency of the crop, producing a better yield and reducing the use of costly fertilisers.

In addition to RBCs, Algifol is available in one-litre (£ 21.99 + VAT) and 10-litre cans (£164 + VAT) directly from Marcus via his website, www.mjpsupplies.co.uk. 

For more information about Algifol or to place an order, email marcus@mjpsupplies.co.uk or call 07702 293 727.