Eden Research signs an agreement with Sumi Agro Europe for the distribution of Mevalone^® in Austria

Eden Research plc (AIM: EDEN), a leader in sustainable biopesticide and biocontrol products, announced it has signed an agreement with Sumi Agro Europe for the distribution of its flagship fungicide, Mevalone^®, in Austria.

Sumi Agro Europe's appointment as Eden's exclusive distributor expands the companies' partnership across the Central European region, with Sumi Agro Europe already acting as the exclusive distributor for Mevalone in a number of countries, including Poland and Germany. Application for Mevalone's use has been submitted with the local regulators, and a decision is expected in 2025. Authorisation will initially apply to grapes and apples.

Renowned for its dry and delicate Grüner Veltliner grape variety, Austria is amongst Central Europe's largest wine markets, with over 45,000 hectares of vineyards across the country. Austria is a leader in not only conventional production but also organic and biodynamic viticulture. Over 15% of vineyards are certified organic, reflecting the country's commitment to sustainability. Additionally, strict wine regulations ensure high-quality production, with classifications like DAC (Districtus Austriae Controllatus) defining regional typicity.  As a biopesticide derived on plant-based chemistry, Mevalone is exempt from such residue limits, providing vineyard managers and grape growers with greater flexibility.

As the third largest producer of apples across Central Europe, behind Poland and Germany, apples also make up a sizable portion of Austria's overall agricultural output, with apple orchards spanning approximately 15,000 hectares. Mevalone has been shown to extend the life of apples in the supply chain, minimising food waste between farm to consumer.

Sean Smith, Chief Executive Officer of Eden Research plc, commented:

"As we prepare for a full launch of our product across Austria, we are delighted to expand our partnership with Sumi Agro who have been a trusted and reliable partner across the Central European region, backed by a strong network of customers. As with other neighbouring territories, Mevalone's upcoming introduction to the Austrian market comes at a time when regulators are taking increasing action against conventional products, leaving local farmers with few alternatives. We believe Mevalone not only provides a direct alternative to those farmers needing to address these market challenges but it is also aligned with the regulator's objectives to foster a more sustainable agricultural future."

Nicola De Tomasso, Business Development Manager in Sumi Agro Europe, commented:

"Eden's mission to bring sustainable agriculture to the industry through plant-derived chemistry has resonated incredibly well with our customers across Germany and Poland. Extending our partnership with the company into Austria has been an obvious decision considering Mevalone's recent success in the region, which we expect to continue growing from strength to strength. We look forward to cooperating closely with Eden towards achieving full authorisation for Mevalone and, upon its receipt, working swiftly to distribute the product across our network of Austrian vineyards and orchards."