Interview with Managing Director, Schalk de Beer. Schalk became Managing Director of Biotechnica five years ago and has been instrumental in many advances within the company. We caught up with him to find out more… Introduction Q. Can you briefly describe your role at Biotechnica and tell us a little more about the company, its core offerings and what sets it apart from its competitors? A. As Managing Director, my role spans strategy, operations, and long-term value creation. I’m closely involved in translating scientific innovation into commercially viable solutions while ensuring we stay true to our sustainability ethos. Biotechnica focuses on high-performance seaweed-based extracts for animal and human nutrition and agriculture related industries. What sets us apart is the depth of our research and development, our collaborations with academic institutions, rigorous quality standards, and the fact that we don’t take a one-size-fits-all approach. We work closely with customers to tailor solutions that deliver consistent, measurable results. Insight Q. How would you prioritise growth, sustainability, and profitability in a volatile market? A. These three are not competing priorities – they’re interdependent. Sustainable practices underpin long-term profitability, and profitable growth enables further investment in sustainability and innovation. In volatile markets, discipline is key: we grow where we can add real value, remain cautious on cost structures, and never compromise on environmental or product integrity. Q. What current trends are you seeing in the space? And do regulatory changes shape what you offer? A. There is a strong shift toward biological and natural solutions, driven by both regulation and customer demand. Consumers increasingly want products that are effective, compliant, and environmentally responsible. Regulatory changes do shape what we offer, but we see them as opportunities to innovate and raise industry standards rather than limitations. Customer Collaboration Q. What would you say are the most important elements customers look for in your products and/or in a distribution partnership? A. Product innovation, quality, consistency, trust, and support. Customers want reliable performance backed by data and strong technical knowledge. In partnerships, transparency and long-term alignment are essential – we see distributors as strategic partners, not just channels to market. Technology Q. How is technology supporting and advancing the growth of the business? A. Technology plays a critical role across the business, from using advanced extraction techniques, high-end processing, and quality control to data-driven decision-making. It allows us to scale efficiently while maintaining product integrity and better understanding customer needs. Quick fire… Q. Most exciting project you’ve worked on? A. Building and scaling our advanced seaweed-based fibers and nutritional supplements, which fundamentally expanded what Biotechnica can deliver to the market. Q. Your leadership style in one word? A. Collaborative. Q. A misconception about the seaweed industry? A. That it is low-tech. In reality, consistent, high-quality seaweed products require significant scientific expertise and process control. Vision Q. What is your vision for Biotechnica over the next 3 – 5 years? A. To establish Biotechnica as a globally respected leader in sustainable biological solutions, known for quality, credibility, and innovation, while expanding into new markets responsibly. Q. What’s next for you and Biotechnica? A. Continued growth with purpose – strengthening the leadership team, scaling responsibly, and staying true to our scientific and sustainability foundations. Find out more about our products. Meet Schalk… Schalk de Beer, Director Schalk is responsible for the entire “technology portfolio” of Biotechnica, including maintenance, evolution of existing technologies and the strategic addition of new and innovative technologies. Working with Norfolk Seaweed Ltd, they have been assessing cultivated seaweed to produce agricultural biostimulants. In early 2024, they oversaw the first spring barley trials with the Catalyst farming group in Holkham, using a group of such biostimulants. They aim to prove the possible reduction of chemical fertiliser use of up to 15 – 20% and will continue this work over the next three years, to extend the type of crops being trialed. Our technical team are happy to discuss your current needs and make recommendations, no matter the scale of your current and future operation. Why not reach out to us with any questions on +44 (0)1234 989 000 or email: info@biotechnica.co.uk Certifications & Accreditations We pride ourselves on producing quality natural products of the highest standard. Our products have received the following certifications:
