Algatech has opened a New York City-based subsidiary, Algatech Inc., created to serve its customers in the North American market. The company is appointing Ken Seguine to lead the new operation.

Algatech’s expansion into the U.S. will accelerate development of the growing market in North America for its leading microalgae ingredient brand, AstaPure, as well as new microalgae sources in the pipeline. Algatech Inc.’s responsibilities will include the U.S., Canada and Mexico. Gary Brenner, who was responsible for Algatech’s business development in the NAFTA markets since 2010, will lead the algal protein development project as part of the European Institute of Innovation and Technology consortium (EIT Food).

Ken Seguine served as vice president of sales and marketing of UAS Laboratories from 2013-2017, and was executive vice president of consumer products at Savesta Life Sciences Inc. He brings more than 25 years of experience in the natural products industry with companies in both dietary supplements and personal care.

“We are committed to expanding our global marketing network and strengthening our presence in the NAFTA markets,” said Algatech CEO Hagai Stadler. “This includes highly qualified personnel recruitment, new product developments, and growing Algatech’s operation facilities in the Arava desert, Israel.”

“I’m excited to join the team at Algatech and help them better serve the North American market with our new organic and non-GMO ingredients,” said Mr. Seguine. “Algatech specializes in the development and production of ingredients derived from algae. I am looking forward to contributing my background in organic agriculture, cosmetics and dietary supplements to the company’s activities.”

Algatech was chosen by the EIT’s Knowledge and Innovation Communities (KIC) leaders to be the sole algae producer, especially to develop new food sources from microalgae via its advanced technologies and capabilities. Algatech intends to invest heavily in developing plant-based protein from microalgae in cooperation with global ingredient companies.

“Algatech is focused on natural microalgae solutions,” said Mr. Stadler. “It cultivates microalgae in a patented, eco-friendly, closed system that allows the production of safe, pure ingredients and minimize its environmental footprint. The company works relentlessly to unlock the potential of microalgae, discovering and industrializing new strains of microalgae, and producing it in large scale through methods completely beneficial to both consumers and the planet.”