When Mitch Eviston and Rob McClelland founded Meristem Ag in 2018, they had no idea how rapidly it would emerge as one of the fastest-growing crop input companies in North America. The company’s mission to help farmers produce more bushels for less cost per bushel, focuses primarily on biologicals and innovative delivery systems. It was Mitch’s entrepreneurial spirit that drove him to create a lean provider of high-quality crop input additives that could help farmers compete globally. McClelland, an economist by training, previously served as president of Farm Journal Performance Marketing and CEO of FLM Harvest. Adding his passion for streamlining agricultural distribution, the team set out to cut the fat from agriculture’s distribution system.
Using a Direct-to-farm model, Meristem connects top farmers directly with manufacturers, collapsing the multi-step distribution channel. They’ve established a lean warehouse and order fulfillment system, with strategic locations in the East and West to efficiently deliver products to farmers. By bypassing public warehouses, distributors, and retailers, they’ve reduced the number of steps between manufacturer and farmer, and claim to have reduced waste by 30% compared to traditional distribution channels. Additionally, Meristem has also taken a very focused approach by targeting farmers with their own spray rigs, on-farm storage, and infrastructure, eliminating the need for additional handling and storage.
Meristem is also at the forefront of the regenerative agriculture movement with its “Biology Is FertilityTM” program. This initiative aims to unlock nutrients tied up in crop residue and build healthier soils through increased biological activity. The company’s solutions align with various regenerative agriculture practices and carbon programs, potentially offering farmers additional revenue streams through initiatives like EQIP and Section 45Z.
In October 2024, Meristem partnered with Bridgepoint, a leading private asset growth investor, to accelerate its global expansion. This partnership aims to leverage Bridgepoint’s sector expertise and industry network to introduce new product combinations, expand Meristem’s customer base, and enhance IP development capabilities. Meristem currently serves over 10 million acres and with Bridgepoint’s deep sector expertise and its connections through portfolio companies like Rovensa, Meristem now has access to markets in Latin America and Europe.
We’ve closely followed Meristem’s progress and growth over the years and consider the founders Mitch and Rob family friends. We are super excited that they will be attending FarmCon in January. Check out more of what they are doing HERE.
