EnCoate™ was formed in 2003 as a 50:50 joint venture between New Zealand's largest government owned research company AgResearch Limited and New Zealand's largest agricultural chemical company Ballance Agri-Nutrients Ltd. The initial focus of the company was stabilising existing and novel bacteria in the agricultural sector, especially in bio-control area. This led to the commericalisation of the Bioshield product.
Encoate is now also using its technology for probiotic stabilisation in the food industry
Ballance Agri-Nutrients Limited is one of New Zealand's leading fertiliser specialists, with manufacturing plants located in 3 locations around the country. In addition, the company owns a ammonia-urea manufacturing plant and Super Air, one of the country's largest agricultural aviation companies.
Ballance is a 100-percent farmer-owned co-operative, with some 18,000 shareholders throughout New Zealand and a turnover of US$400 million.
The company sells just under 1.4 million tonnes of fertiliser products a year, to agricultural, horticultural and industrial customers.
A blue chip company with over 600 employees, Ballance focuses on developing and delivering fertiliser products and services that benefit farmers and growers, while protecting the environment.
The company places a strong emphasis on delivering value to its shareholders and on the use of a scientific approach to plant nutrient management.
