About Sylvite: Trusted Experts in
Agriculture, Chemical Supply & Transportation

“We’re committed to delivering 
the best value by understanding your business, anticipating your needs, and driving long-term success for years to come”
Hugh Loomans
Hugh Loomans, President and Chief Executive Officer, Sylvite

OUR PURPOSE

Driven to Support Growth And Further Innovation

Sylvite exists to foster collaborative growth for our partners. Our vertically-integrated approach seamlessly contributes to the success and sustainability of our customers and the broader community.

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OUR MISSION

Delivering Trusted Solutions to Fuel Sustainable Growth

Our mission is to be Canada’s leading independent provider of essential products and services, driving growth in every market 
we serve.

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OUR VALUES
Collaboration

We believe in the power of working together, recognizing that collective efforts lead to mutual growth and success.

Integrity

Operating with honesty, transparency, and a commitment to ethical business practices in all interactions.

Innovation

Constantly seeking and implementing cutting-edge solutions to enhance efficiency and meet the evolving needs of our clients.

Sustainability

A deep commitment to environmental responsibility, promoting practices that contribute positively to the agricultural ecosystem.

Excellence

Striving for excellence in every aspect of our operations, from product quality to customer service.

Trusted Brands for Your Home, Work & Everyday Needs

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AGRICULTURE

Trusted Supply &
Expert Support for

a Better Harvest

From tailored crop inputs to expert agronomic support, Sylvite helps farmers boost yields, protect their land, and plan for the future—all with a reliable supply chain they can trust.

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CHEMICAL SUPPLY

Safe, Proven Solutions for Every Industry

From industrial chemicals to custom blending, Sylvite delivers high-quality, compliant solutions tailored to your needs. With a focus on safety, consistency, and expert support, we help you keep operations running smoothly.

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Transportation

Seamless Logistics, Reliable Deliveries

From warehousing to transportation, Sylvite provides flexible, end-to-end logistics solutions tailored to your needs. With expert coordination and dependable service, we ensure your products get where they need to be, on time and hassle-free.

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Our History

Sylvite began as a small fertilizer supplier and, through decades of steady growth, became a full-service agricultural supplier known for reliability, expertise, and customer-first solutions. From a modest team in the 1980s to a vast network supporting farmers, industries, and supply chains across North America, Sylvite has remained independently owned, committed to sustainable growth, and dedicated to delivering essential products with a personal touch.

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1977 – Founding of Sylvite

Two industry pioneers, Alex Henry and Don Rutherford, saw a need for high-quality fertilizers to support Ontario farmers. They established Sylvite Sales Ltd. in Toronto, specializing in potash-based fertilizers that improved crop yields and strengthened agricultural operations.

1983 – New Leadership and Vision

Hugh Loomans takes the helm of Sylvite, bringing a clear vision for expansion. At the time, Sylvite had just three employees and a narrow focus on fertilizers. Under Loomans’ leadership, the company embraced long-term partnerships and strategic growth, laying the foundation for what would become one of Canada’s leading independent suppliers.

1989 – Expansion into U.S. Markets

With a commitment to serving farmers beyond Ontario, Sylvite establishes its first U.S. subsidiary, Sylvite USA, in partnership with Bob McNaughton. Operations launch in Lakeland, Florida, expanding the company’s reach and ensuring reliable crop nutrient supply for a broader North American market.

1990 – International Trading Arm

Recognizing the need for global reach, Sylvite International is formed to facilitate international fertilizer trade. This move strengthens Sylvite’s position as a key supplier across Canada and the U.S., building strong supply networks for agricultural and industrial clients.

1993 – Entry into Agronomy Services

Sylvite broadens its role in agriculture by investing in Coldsprings Ontario Agri-Services, marking its entry into retail farm supply. By providing not just fertilizers but also expert agronomic support, Sylvite deepens its relationship with farmers, helping them optimize their crop inputs for maximum yields.

1994 – Midwestern U.S. Presence

Sylvite expands its footprint into the U.S. Midwest, opening Sylvite Central in Shawnee Mission, Kansas. This move allows the company to connect more effectively with major agricultural markets and continue strengthening its role in the supply chain.

1995 – Enhanced Logistics Infrastructure

Sylvite USA launches Sylco Service and Terminal in Pennsylvania, reinforcing its commitment to efficient product movement. The new terminal improves storage and throughput capacity, ensuring farmers receive fertilizers when and where they need them.

1997 – Strategic Port Acquisition

Recognizing the importance of logistics, Sylvite acquires Pier 12 warehouse facilities in Hamilton Harbour. This port-side storage and distribution center enhances Sylvite’s ability to blend, store, and ship fertilizers efficiently across the Great Lakes region.

1998 – Diversification into Industrial Chemicals

Expanding beyond agriculture, Sylvite enters the industrial chemical market, supplying raw materials to manufacturing and water treatment industries. This diversification strengthens Sylvite’s portfolio and positions it as a trusted supplier across multiple sectors.

1999 – Growth in Agri-Services

Sylvite fully acquires Coldsprings Agri-Services, securing complete control of its agronomy division. This acquisition reinforces Sylvite’s dedication to providing direct-to-farmer crop solutions, from fertilizers to custom seed blends.

2001 – Launch of Transportation Division

To improve service reliability, Sylvite forms Sylvite Transportation, creating an in-house trucking fleet. This ensures that customers receive their fertilizers and chemicals on time while strengthening Sylvite’s vertically integrated supply chain.

2003 – Financial Services Innovation

Understanding the financial challenges of modern farming, Sylvite introduces crop input financing and risk management solutions, further supporting its customers with tailored financial services.

2005 – Western Expansion Partnership

Partnering with Abocol, a Colombian fertilizer company, Sylvite extends its global reach, gaining access to additional product lines and reinforcing its supply chain resilience.

2007 – Increased U.S. Storage Capacity

Sylvite expands its Lakeland, Florida operations, improving warehousing and storage to better serve customers across the southeastern U.S.

2011 – Cross-Border Logistics Growth

Sylvite Transportation opens a trucking base in Canton, Ohio, reinforcing its cross-border shipping capabilities and ensuring more efficient movement of products across North America.

2015 – Acquisition of Fertilizer Technology Plant

In partnership with S.P. Nutraceuticals (Nu-Tec), Sylvite acquires Agrium’s Advanced Technologies fertilizer packaging plant in Putnam, Ontario. This facility enables Sylvite to develop advanced fertilizer blends and packaging solutions, enhancing its ability to offer high-performance, customized crop inputs.

2016 – Boosting Transportation Fleet

Sylvite acquires Pestell Transport Ltd., strengthening its bulk commodity transportation services and ensuring faster, more reliable product delivery.

2019 – U.S. Logistics Acquisition

The acquisition of Cooper Brothers Trucking in Ohio expands Sylvite’s logistics capabilities, increasing efficiency in fertilizer and chemical transportation across Canada and the U.S.

2019 – Major Retail Agronomy Expansion

Sylvite Agri-Services acquires the Agronomy Division of Thompsons Limited, growing its Ontario retail locations from 5 to 15. This significant expansion solidifies Sylvite as one of Ontario’s largest farm service providers, ensuring more farmers have access to expert guidance and premium crop inputs.

2019 – Sustainability Milestone

Sylvite commits to 4R Nutrient Stewardship, becoming the first agri-retailer in Canada to earn certification for nutrient management best practices. By implementing science-backed, eco-friendly fertilizer strategies, Sylvite supports sustainable farming and environmental responsibility.

2020 – Continued Growth as Independent Leader

Entering its fifth decade, Sylvite stands as Eastern Canada’s largest independent fertilizer wholesaler. Its success is built on strong partnerships, customer-centric solutions, and a steadfast commitment to sustainable agriculture. Today, Sylvite remains dedicated to helping farmers grow with confidence, reinforcing its motto: Working Together, Growing Together.

2021 – Strengthened Operations and Embraced Digital Tools

Sylvite enhanced internal systems, accelerated digital adoption, and introduced new tools across divisions—improving communication, service delivery, and operational resilience during a time of global uncertainty.

2023 – Expanded Product Portfolio with Ice Melter Acquisition

Sylvite acquired HLF’s line of ice melting products, extending its reach into professional, industrial, and consumer lawncare markets with a broader seasonal offering.

2024 – Coleman® Joins the Sylvite Network

Coleman® bug repellent and safety kits became part of the Sylvite family, adding a trusted retail brand to our growing consumer product lineup.

2025 – Acquired Full Ownership of Port Albert Grain Terminal

Sylvite acquired full ownership of The Andersons’ grain operations in Port Albert, strengthening our footprint in Ontario’s agri-business sector. The facility remains 100% Canadian-owned and independently operated, reaffirming our commitment to serving Ontario’s agricultural community.

CAREERS AT SYLVITE

Working Together, Growing Together

At Sylvite, we invest in our people by offering opportunities for growth, a supportive team, and a workplace built on integrity and collaboration. Join us and be part of a company that helps industries thrive—starting with you.

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