The technology used by Ultramins has existed for some time, but the company itself celebrated its first anniversary in March. In March 2021, Robert de Hoo and Kees Luijkx decided to put their heads together and fully commit to disinfecting horticultural water with USAF ultrasonic transmitters.
"We started the year mainly focusing on algae eradication and in the meantime much more has been done and proven", Robert looks back. "Many tests at Eurofins have shown that our USAF-ultrasone transmitters achieve sublime watering, completely free of harmful pathogens. With tests at Proeftuin Ron Peters, we have even demonstrated that we render the ToBRFV harmless."
This virus is a global problem for tomato and pepper growers. Earlier this year, Robert and Kees spoke more about it during a visit to Proeftuin Ron Peters where practical tests were conducted with the transmitters.
Kees Luijkx, Rien Rodenburg, Robert de Hoo and Ron Peters in front of the greenhouse at Proeftuin Ron Peters where research into ToBRFV control is being carried out
With well-deserved pride: "In one year, we have killed off trillions of unwanted algae and other pathogens. We are now selling to 17 countries. The best part is the reactions of the customers, which are extremely positive. We totally could not have imagined this beforehand."
Wherever water stays for a long time, the USAF™ ultrasonic transmitters can be used to clean or disinfect the water.
Broad customer base
"We have exclusive distribution rights for all USAF ultrasonic transmitters worldwide," says Robert. "We now supply from the Netherlands to Canada and from the United States to Kenya. We have a wide customer base: from tomato and cucumber growers, herb and rose growers, to orchid and pot plant growers. All of them have to deal with pathogens in their water, and we can help them do so successfully."
From left to right: Jeroen Baris of Bewijsrapportage.nl, Frank Dekker and Bas Vriend of Dekker Glascultures, Kees Luykx of Luykx Ultrasound and Robert de Hoo of Ultramins
Growing team
Anyone who has not yet come across Ultramins in the field will have plenty of new opportunities this year. Two permanent staff members have been recruited, namely Christiaan Karel and Glenn Grootenboer. Christiaan, who goes by Chris, is available daily for any questions about the optimal and sustainable disinfection of drain and watering systems. Glenn is the specific contact for South Holland. Robert is the contact person for distributors and foreign growers.
Creative marketing
Two part-time workers have also been recruited to maintain the website and promote the USAF channels on social media and with other creative marketing activities, including a billboard on the A4 motorway when entering Westland. "This year, we will also be at trade fairs for the first time, namely at the HortiContact from 10-12 May and the GreenTech Amsterdam from 14-16 June."
For more information:
Ultramins 
+31 (0) 85023 1097
Christiaan Karel +31 (0) 659 300 400
Glenn Grootenboer +31 (0) 630 987 654
Robert de Hoo +31 (0) 620 536 536
info@ultramins.com
www.ultramins.com