Our Brand name for Propionic phenoxy herbicides

The Propionic phenoxy herbicides (mecoprop and diclorprop ) have been used in Europe since the 1950’s for the control of broad leaved weeds in intensive cereal farming. During the 1980’s A H Marks was instrumental in launching the single isomer versions of both molecules (CMPP-P and DP-P ). These are identical to the original molecule except they provide the same degree of herbicide activity at half the dose rate by isolating the biologically active isomer. This provides environmental benefits by reducing the quantity of chemical released by 50%, reducing the ‘food miles’ associated with the transport of crop input, and lowering the overall load of chemical in the distribution chain by 50%.

Through research and development the use of the products has spread and intensified over the years. About a third of all world production goes into the American turf market, another third into the key cereals markets of UK, France, Germany and Scandanavia and the remaining third is split into niche markets including the New Zealand pasture market, Canadian wheat market and even used as an industrial weed inhibitor in the roofing market. The products leave our site in many forms ranging from 1 metric tonne pallets of high purity technical grade to 5% solutions in drums.

A H Marks plays a leading role in the development of product defence and extension data. To date over USD10m has been spent on investigating the safety profile of the products in the key trading areas - USA, Canada and the EU. Both products are nearing the end of governmental review in these markets with long term reapproval for use likely over the next 2 years. This is the end of a process started in 1989. It is anticipated that no further restrictions will be placed on the products as a result of completion of the reviews.

The Propionics business is based on established molecules with strong activity against widespread weeds. We market the products under our own brand - OPTICA - in many markets and hold our own end use product registrations in the key markets. The business is backwardly integrated into the key intermediates, including the production of the optical isomer, giving us a unique competitive advantage. We will contiue to expand the use of our products and derive value from the business.

For further information please contact John MacInnes, Area Sales Manager
Direct Dial +44 (0) 1274 696628 jmacinnes@ahmarks.com