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TECH50
5
FOREWORD THE VISION OF
6 8 12 32 46
BEN VERWAAYEN, Captain of Industry and chairman of the Committee of Experts of the Hillenraad100 in 2019 regarding technology working towards the community concept
15 16 20
THE TECH50-EDITORS TEAM about tech in horticulture MARTIEN PENNING, publisher Hillenraad100, about the Holy Grail autonomous growing PRIVA-GEEKS, that’s why they chose horticulture
24 28
HILLENRAAD ABOUT HORTICULTURAL TECH big money and new payers in the field
34 38 42 48 COLOFON Publisher Aldenborg Research: Martien Penning, Hillenraad BV Compilation and review: Hillenraad100, TECH50-Peer group, Editors Text: Hillenraad100, Tekst Unlimited Production co-ordination and realisation: ANIQ Projectorganisatie Design: Just in Case Layout and development: Peanutsch Photography: The editors have tried, as far as possible, to trace the rightful owner of the visual material, a.o Fotostudio GJ Vlekke, Phil Nijhuis, Bart van Overbeeke Advertisement bookings: Princetown Media Translation: Tekom Vertalers
52 56
TECH50 EXPLANATION DOMAIN ROBOTICS & SMART MACHINERY Interview with Maarten Steinbuch ‘Robotisation starts with defining the problem’ DOMAIN LIGHT & LED Interview with Sander Hogewoning ‘Led will be the one and only standard in illuminated horticultural production’ DOMAIN GREENHOUSE TECHNOLOGY Interview with Annie van de Riet ‘Sooner or later, as-aservice concepts will appear in the horticultural sector’ DOMAIN SENSING & DATA COLLECTION Interview with Marcel Zevenbergen ‘Focus sensortechnology on real-time measurements’ DOMAIN SMART PROCES CONTROL Interview with Marcel van Haren ‘A joint strategy is needed for the transition to industry 4.0’ DOMAIN DATA SCIENCE Interview with Jim Stolze ‘Artificial intelligence will be one of the most important tools in horticulture’ DOMAIN PLATFORMS Interview with Maurits Kreijveld ‘Really understanding the demand; that’s what it all boils down to’ DOMAIN VERTICAL FARMING Interview with Leo Marcelis ‘Vertical Farming; what are the potential benefits’ DOMAIN GENETICS & BIOLOGY Interview with Sjoukje Heimovaara ‘New genetic tools: a wealth of opportunities, but a complicated issue’ DOMAIN SMART LOGISTICS Interview with Nico Anten and Leon Simons ‘Three challenges on the route to smart logistics: digitisation, decarbonisation, and disruption’
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3
Factory automation in agro & food YOUNG PLANT TECHNOLOGY
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E
TECH50 FOREWORD
very year we test its pulse: how is
However, current events formed the
So we’re delighted to lead you, as a
the Dutch horticultural sector doing?
factor that prompted us to opt to
reader, through the amazing world of
We do this biannually by means of the
produce a new themed edition about the
horticultural technology and the latest
Hillenraad100, and in this interim year in the
fifty most talked-about and promising
developments within it. The pandemic
form of the special themed edition entitled
companies in horticultural technology: the
delayed the planned publication by a year,
HillenraadTECH50.
HillenraadTECH50. Horticultural technology,
but it has therefore allowed us to follow
in all its facets, plays an important role in
developments closely for one year longer.
It was, of course, very tempting to update
solving global issues associated with fresh
The only correct conclusion we can draw
our previous themed edition, the Hillenraad
and safe food, health and well-being, as
is that developments are happening even
SUB40. After all, highlighting the 40
well as issues concerning the efficient and
faster than expected.
companies that are wildly attractive to
effective use of raw materials, water, and
people under the age of 40 is extremely
energy.
important for the future of horticultural
This is more of a promising trend than a worrying one. There’s a whole world to be
businesses, not least because we urgently
Climate change and the COVID-19
won, with horticulture at the forefront. Let’s
need the new generation onboard.
pandemic have caused a number of
work together as we build a world-class
With their knowledge, expertise and skills
fundamental world issues to become
horticultural sector.
in the field of technology, social media, and
extremely pertinent. How are we going
turning sustainability ambitions into reality,
to decarbonise production, what do we
Martien Penning
they are the ones with the ability to make an
produce where, and how do we guarantee
Initiator Hillenraad100 and
important contribution.
food safety and food security? Horticulture
HillenraadTECH50
and the technologies used in the sector deliver a vital contribution in these areas.
5
WORKING TOWARDS THE COMMUNITY CONCEPT BEN VERWAAYEN ‘Technology in horticulture is extremely important, but don’t make the mistake of thinking this is the only important area. Technology is a means, not an end. Another misconception is that scaling up is the way to success. In my view, the limit has been reached, or is in sight in any case. Where do the new opportunities and possibilities lie then? The key word for the future is “communities”.’ These are the words of Ben Verwaayen, former head of Alcatel-Lucent and British Telecom, partner of Keen Venture Partners, and chair of the Hillenraad100 Committee of Experts in 2019.
‘W
that play, or should play, an important role in internal business operations. Proximity is one example, and you don’t need a crystal ball to predict that the days of simply shipping stuff around the world are numbered. Why not anticipate these developments?
STRONGHEADED HORTICULTURALISTS ‘Traditional horticulture has always been exceptionally innovative, but this is mainly limited to within the sector’s
e used to speak of chains,
adds value. These could well be companies
boundaries. It’s now time to push these
but today the keyword is
that have never considered the horticultural
boundaries, and seek out businesses
communities. Essentially,
sector, and are not specialised in it.’
and partners from outside the sector.
this involves putting in what you’re good
6
the word. These are all external factors
Strongheaded horticulturalists have
at, and taking out what others are good
‘NO CRYSTAL BALL NEEDED
helped the sector enormously in the past,
at. Who delivers also receives. In this
‘The conditions that determine a company’s
and this strongheadedness can now be
way, you work together on an unbeatable
success are increasingly located outside the
exploited in being open to the concept
end product. We can see communities
sector. One of the important components
of a community, and getting to work on it.
developing at lightning speed, and
is ESG: Environmental, Social and
The horticultural sector is absolutely brilliant
players who have nothing to do with
Governance. The horticultural sector can’t
in the here and now, but not so talented
the horticultural sector are part of them.
take it for granted that society will accept
in opening doors to other sectors. It could
This could be because they supply a
everything the sector does. You have to
well be the case that a company with no
product or service that can be applied
work hard to keep earning that licence to
knowledge whatsoever of horticulture has a
smartly in horticulture. Such a community
operate. ESG is of great relevance here; you
component that could be a big help to you.
is formed not only with classic, well-known
will have to prove that you’re contributing
The community concept is exactly about
companies, but with every business that
to sustainability in the broadest sense of
giving space to these kinds of companies.
TECH50 INTERVIEW It forces you to think about where exactly
maintaining the status quo. We shouldn’t
you add value, and where you can excel.’
look back too much, and certainly not rest on our laurels. The sector has a truly
SCALING UP IS FLEXING YOUR MUSCLES
excellent starting position, and swapping
‘I don’t think it’s a good idea to concentrate
concept opens the door to some great
on scaling up. Further economies of
opportunities. Technology and data aren’t
scale are associated with new problems
in charge here; they’re nothing more and
and issues, for example in the field of
nothing less than tools.’
the chain concept for the community
sustainability. I believe that in the next phase, the focus will change much more to
WHERE ARE THE UNICORNS?
businesses finding their niche. Upscaling
‘Incidentally, I don’t consider that this
is ‘flexing your muscles’; the real winners
new phase horticulture is entering to
are the businesses with the most flexible
be a complex task or challenge at all.
perspective on technology, and are able
That would be way too negative for me.
to use this technology in their community.
I think it must be really exciting and fun for
The drive to scale up that we’re currently
businesspeople to be able to dive into the
seeing in the horticultural sector is more
next stage full of enthusiasm. I’ve every
or less being forced on companies by the
confidence that those doing business in
lack of communities, and the direction
horticulture will seize these opportunities.
taken here is increasingly determined by
This is a group of incredibly tenacious
investors.’
entrepreneurs, and I’ve no doubt they’ll be able to do their bit in such a new
EXCELLENT STARTING POSITION
phase. By the way, I do find it worrying that
‘This other way of thinking, namely the
we have few or no horticultural-related
community concept, shouldn’t be seen as
unicorns (startups worth more than one
a loss of independence, but as a new door
billion dollars) in the Netherlands. How to
opening. The horticultural sector can rightly
become one? Focus, and be the best at
be proud of what it has achieved in recent
what you do!’
years, but pride is rarely a good reason for
7
TECH IN HORTICULTURE ‘It’s pretty simple,’ said one of the editors with an air of surprise, when we asked about the future of tech in the horticultural sector. ‘I’m convinced that the Netherlands possesses the knowledge and expertise it needs in order to remain a global leader in hightech greenhouse horticulture, and as such help create a healthier, better world for everyone.’ This is precisely what we frequently hear from the editors when discussing their vision on technology in the horticultural sector of the future. What is it that makes the horticulture sector in the Netherlands so unique? Where are the biggest developments? Who are the players of the future? And are we sufficiently aware of the advances that are also taking place outside the Netherlands’ borders?
T
he editors initially sought an answer to this question in the future of the horticultural products themselves,
and in the consumers who are increasingly coming to appreciate fresh, local products. Some opinions: ‘In the future, the production process will be entirely driven by demand, whereby this demand will be formulated in an even more precisely defined and consumer-orientated way. Big data and algorithms will be the most important tools in this process.’ In the context of tech developments, we must set out to identify the promising high-profile companies at the forefront of new advances that have the potential to radically change the horticultural sector as we know it today.’
A DIFFERENT MINDSET The editors believe that the engaged and sometimes romanticised character of the Dutch horticultural sector needs a different mindset, especially when faced with a future
EDITORS MEETING MARCH 2020
in which tech will have the upper hand.
From left to right: Liselotte de Vries, Jorge Martins, Martien Penning,
Lots of horticultural companies have been
Rob Helderman, Bas van Eerdt, Mike van Schie, William van Dulken,
actively working with innovative production
Mark Murkes, Tim Zwinkels, Maurice Dame, Robin van den Broek,
technology for many years, but still follow
Tom Zwinkels, Anita Bassie
a traditional operating model when it comes to deploying the latest technologies.
Not on the picture: Simone Keijzer
8
The editors are unanimous about a vision of
TECH50 THE TECH50-EDITORS a future in which tech will be applied in an
sector,’ as one editor clearly puts it.
may be start-ups, scale-ups, or established
integrated way. Digitalisation and tech are
The editors are in no doubt: we’re on the
companies. Ultimately, we are talking
radically altering the world of horticulture.
eve of a whole host of major developments.
about those companies that can make
The role of the green-fingered grower will
a substantial contribution towards the transition of horticulture into a sustainable
processes that are commonplace today will
WHICH COMPANIES WILL TAKE THE LEAD?
disappear.
Dutch horticulture still appears to be way
being of the global consumer.
change beyond recognition, and business
sector that focuses on the health and well-
ahead of the rest of the world. Innovation,
WHAT TECHNOLOGIES ARE AT THE FOREFRONT?
dynamism and speed; these words still
One of the editors: ‘Machine learning,
according to the editors. However, the rest
virtual reality, 5G, big data, 3D printing,
of the world is also making progress and
IoT, AI, image recognition, robotisation; all
catching up. Lots of companies can see
of these developments are influencing the
the opportunities in global horticulture and
world and markets around us. They are also
its aspirational role of fulfilling the ever-
changing the horticultural sector and are
growing demand for sufficient safe and
influencing the extent to which we can lead
nutritious food. Parallel with the demand
the way in these advances.’ Each and every
for local fresh products, the demand
one of these technologies is going to be of
for production technology, cultivation
considerable use in developing solutions
knowledge, and modern business practices
to issues affecting horticulture, such as
is also growing. The discussions with the
sustainability, food safety, water, and labour.
editors made it possible to formulate a clear
characterise horticulture in the Netherlands,
picture of the winners of the future. They all At the moment, it seems impossible to
have clearly recognisable tech ambitions
predict what technological developments
and digital mindsets, are continuously
will be further pursued and at what speed,
developing new technologies and revenue
and which ones will have the greatest
models, are investing structurally in R&D,
impact. One thing is certain, however. All of
and are creating a positive impact by means
them will have a significant impact on a
of their products and services. As far as the
great many companies in the horticultural
editors themselves are concerned, these
9
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THE HOLY GRAIL TECH50 AUTONOMOUS GROWING
The idea of the holy grail, an unknown, seemingly unattainable, but higher goal, has always appealed to the popular imagination. Working together on something amazing is a basic human drive, and that also applies in the horticultural sector. After a series of other higher goals, autonomous growing is currently the holy grail, and perhaps the unifying theme within HillenraadTECH50.
A
a position to supply the market with the exact quantities it needs at a given point in time. Lots of advances have already been made, and the technology is in place to achieve much more. Although technology is becoming more dependable and more affordable in general, by no means all forms of technology are completely reliable
s we already mentioned in the
political decision-making. This is because
and economically feasible as yet. In many
foreword, the horticultural sector,
the drive for autonomy is in many aspects
aspects, humans still outperform machines.
along with the techniques and
forceful and desirable, until it starts
Perhaps less so in standardised routine
technologies used within it, is making an
impacting on our own environment or
actions, but people are, for at least for the
outstanding contribution towards solving
freedom. The horticultural sector is no
time being, unbeatable in their creativity
global issues in the field of health and
different. How does the urban environment
and their solution-orientated approach
well-being, food safety, and food security.
interact with the horticultural sector, how
towards unexpected events and disasters.
Last but not least, it’s also doing its bit to
acceptable is food made with genetic tools,
Even the plant itself is much more intuitive
ensure that raw materials, water and energy
and what does the consumer think of a
than we often realise, which partly explains
are used efficiently and effectively. All of
fresh horticultural product that has never
why biomimicry is increasingly leading the
this largely depends on how technology is
seen the sun? As horticulturalists, we have
way in the search for high-tech solutions.
developed and applied.
to remember that the solution isn’t merely a case of implementing technology.
AUTONOMY
12
estimated reliably, and puts suppliers in
DOMAINS Before autonomous growing is even
In essence, autonomous growing means
AUTOMATED GROWING
possible, all kinds of technological
growing plants without direct human
The ultimate dream of many businesses
advances will be needed. It’s no easy task
intervention. In the first place, this presents
in the horticultural sector is to be able
to determine what vital factor will ultimately
a technological challenge, but ultimately its
to cultivate a crop under completely
provide the major breakthrough. Will it
scope ultimately extends further than that
controlled conditions. This eliminates the
be LED lighting, robotics, new genetics,
and includes aspects such as applicability,
risks of diseases and the unavailability
or algorithms? Many technological
sustainability, social acceptance, and
of manpower, it allows crop yields to be
advances are highly interdependent,
growing & production
trade & distribution
market & consumer
Fully predictable production systems
Platforms and fullfilment centres
Reliable solutions for food issues and green issues
growing environment
Production close to the market Zero waste Low-carbon footprint Personalised
platforms
Consumer fresh safe healthy local wellbeing
supply chains genetics
phenotyping
and influence and reinforce each other.
moment that the experience, alertness, and
on human motivation and political decision-
The big connecting factor is, of course,
decisiveness of the pilot is so important.
making. Maybe Daniel Lohues was right
the interaction between growth and data.
Do you have sufficient insight into the
when he sang, ‘What is impossible has
Basically, it all boils down to photons and
impact and effects of the new variables, and
never happened’. And are we still just at
electrons.
what does the decision suppor model say?
the beginning of the integration between
Of course, it’s often also possible to call
technology, biology and horticulture, or are
We’ve divided the playing field in which
in the external expertise of flight control.
we simply returning to the origins, when
technology is deployed into ten different
This is how I envision the horticulture of the
man lived in harmony with nature?
domains (for more information, see our
future – a large number of global users of
reasoning). Obviously these domains
horticultural technology, such as growers,
The illustration above shows the place that
don’t operate in a vacuum, but combined
retailers, investors, and local partners,
autonomous growing will occupy in the
together they offer a step towards fully
who cultivate plants with a high degree
future. Autonomous growing will result in
autonomous growing and seamless
of autonomy. If necessary, they will always
completely predictable, local production
integration in the supply chain right up
be able to turn to specialist expertise, the
systems. These can be linked directly to
to point when the product reaches the
latest software releases with new features,
consumer demand which will reach the
consumer. There’s still a long way to go,
the most up-to-date algorithms, and the
producer via platforms. The supply chain
however.
latest insights into consumer demand.
partner takes care of the physical fulfilment,
AUTOPILOT
NATURAL INTELLIGENCE
fulfilment. The experience itself lies with the
In my opinion, technology in the
Ultimately, it comes down to the natural
consumer.
horticultural sector is well on its way to
intelligence of man and of nature itself,
running on autopilot – the rapid and
in interaction with technology – designs
efficient handling of routine decisions
and applications based on natural
and routine actions by using vision, AI,
principles, bioinformatics, biomimicry,
and robots. As a comparison, think of an
neural networks, fungi networks in the soil,
experienced pilot in a Boeing Dreamliner
quantum computing biology, and much
landing at Kennedy Airport. In this situation,
more. This will facilitate the major shift
the autopilot can function autonomously
from scaling up to proximity, from central
unless an unexpected situation or
to local, from chain to community, from
emergency occurs. It’s precisely at such a
circular to regenerative. A lot will depend
the platform takes care of the virtual
13
The go-to partner in horti, agri & food Hillenraad Partners offers access to the knowledge, expertise
TECH50 INTERVIEW
and a valuable network, including the execution power to solve your business issues fast and professionally
Board support
Strategy consulting
Organisation & Interim Finance & Performance
Mergers & acquisitions
Sharpen purpose, vision, mission & ambitions
Strategy support & implementation
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Performance analyse
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Market research Performance & Portfolio analyse Strategy development Scenario building & strategic options Growth plan & Roadmap Commercial Due Diligence Strategic alliances
Change management Talent development Team building & development Interim & project management Hillenraad Academy education & training
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Business model development
Debt Advisory & finance Valuation Due Diligence Restructuring
TECH50 EXPLANATION This themed edition, the HillenraadTECH50, features the fifty most notable and promising companies in horticultural technology. Which companies are currently developing the technology of the future? Which major and (as yet) minor developments are we seeing that will change the face of horticulture? It is clear that much progress is being made, and that much more is yet to come. We would like to shed light on these developments, but it’s not an easy task. TECH AS A REVENUE MODEL
fourth factor, we assessed whether the
better understanding of the technological
During the research process, we and the
company has strong growth potential
development of international horticulture as
editors concluded that this technology-
in this particular technological domain.
a relevant sector for solving global issues.
themed edition should include clear
Is there a skilled team that includes hipsters,
assessment criteria. After all: though
hackers and hustlers? In other words,
If you feel that an absolute star player is
technology is becoming an increasingly
does the company possess a combination
missing from this list, please do let us know.
important part of business operations for
of (market) creativity and inspired
Like you, we are following developments
many companies, does that automatically
technological knowledge, and a ‘fixer’ who
closely, but we are not infallible.
make them tech companies? Ultimately, we
can manage all of the commercial and
We have done our very best to compile
decided with the research team to select
organisational aspects? We also took into
a comprehensive and informative list.
companies where technology is the key
account whether the solution is contributing
However, we cannot rule out the possibility
component of the revenue model.
towards autonomous growing. Finally,
that an important player may have been
is there a strong focus on social and
overlooked.
TEN TECH DOMAINS
sustainability aspects: is the company
We included ten technology domains in our
making a substantial contribution and does
PRIVA
research: robotics & smart machinery, light
it make the world a better place?
Priva is the proud main sponsor of the HillenraadTECH50 event. Priva encourages
& LED, greenhouse technology, sensors & data collection, smart process control, data
As the researcher will always look through
businesses that contribute to a sustainable
science, data platforms, vertical farming &
his own lens, we asked a TECH50 peer
future through technological innovation
daylight-free cultivation, genetics & biology
group for its opinion and that opinion was
where people can enjoy a healthy working
and smart logistics. In each domain, the
included in the end result. Fifty people
and living environment and have access to
five winners from the Netherlands from
(almost) younger than 50 made a selection
safe and nutritious food.
each domain were included in the TECH50.
of companies and ranked them. Since Priva is the main sponsor of the event,
In order to demonstrate the fact that not only Dutch companies are active in these
The Hillenraad research team used
the company was not included in the list this
ten domains, we therefore also included a
information provided by the companies
year to prevent any conflict of interest and
benchmark of five international companies
and gained from public sources, and took
guarantee the independence of the ranking.
in each domain. Those companies were
developments into account until mid
not included in the ranking, because in
September 2021.
many cases, information was insufficient to establish a relative ranking and are
STARS
presented in alphabetical order.
The 50 selected companies were rated using a star system. From the total of 292
CRITERIA
companies that were selected, 170 Dutch
In the eyes of the research team and the
companies were assessed and categorised.
editors of TECH50, it was very important to
Only companies with at least three stars
identify and apply these criteria. The first of
were eligible for a mention. In this way, the
these was innovation & disruption: to what
ranking is relative to the other players in the
extent are the companies pioneering new
particular domain.
products and technologies? The second criterion was R&D: how many staff and what
What are these stars worth? They represent
amount of budget, energy and enthusiasm
a snapshot of a particular moment in
is being invested in R&D? Does the
time. You are only as good as your last
company have a clear revenue model?
assessment and until a new disruptive
Does it have active users, paying customers
technology player takes over. With this
or influential launching customers? As a
list, we hope to contribute towards a
15
TECH50
ROBOTISATION STARTS WITH DEFINING THE PROBLEM MAARTEN STEINBUCH AND HIS GROUP DESIGNED A NUMBER OF HIGHLY ADVANCED SURGICAL ROBOTS, AND HIS RESEARCH GROUP’S SOCCER ROBOTS AND CARE ROBOTS WON THE WORLD CHAMPIONSHIPS. SIMPLY PUT, MAARTEN STEINBUCH IS THE IDEAL PERSON TO DISCUSS THE SUBJECT OF ROBOTICS WITH.
M
aarten Steinbuch is a professor
issue, but understanding what the sensor
at Eindhoven University of
sees. It’s comparable to self-driving cars;
Technology. His work covers
the sensor has to do more than detect
areas such as automotive technology (he’s
the difference between a lamppost and
a prominent supporter of electric cars),
a thin, stationary pedestrian. The camera
mechatronics, and motion control.
in the car must also understand what it sees, and what that means. In this case,
IN THE HORTICULTURAL SECTOR, WE’VE BEEN WAITING FOR YEARS FOR THE FIRST REAL ROBOTS FOR OUR INDUSTRY, SUCH AS A TOMATO-PICKING ROBOT. WHY IS IT TAKING SO LONG?
both objects are currently stationary, but
‘Just like self-driving vehicles, people’s
moves immediately. It takes a lot of time
expectations of robots are too high. It’s all
and creativity to deal with this issue. We’ll
humans are just so incredibly good at
much more complicated than it seems, so
manage eventually, but it’s going to take
it. When the conditions are predictable
we can’t count on the mass deployment
more than a couple of years.’
and uniform, however, robotisation is
the pedestrian could suddenly cross the road. A tomato-picking robot, for example, must understand that a tomato isn’t always in exactly the same place. In fact, if you give the plant a push, the tomato
of picking robots in the short term. In the
perfectly feasible. To compare with cars again; a motorway is predictable, the
You therefore have to carry out careful
IN WHICH SITUATIONS CAN AUTOMATION OR ROBOTISATION BE EXPECTED TO APPEAR IN THE SHORT TERM?
calculations to decide the business cases for
‘Let me start off by saying that a human
That’s something we can see in Industrial
which today’s technology is good enough.
being is an amazing device that we can’t
automation, where things like packing
It may be profitable for one crop, but not
simply make copies of. That’s why it’s
robots are already standard.’
for another. We’ve been working on a
important to think carefully about whether
tomato-picking robot here in Eindhoven
it makes sense to replace a human with a
for years. The biggest task is the question
device. It leads quickly to the conclusion
about whether the robot ‘understands
that some manual actions will have to
what it sees’. Sensing tomatoes isn’t the
continue in the same way, because we
first place, making the business case is a difficult task. Fair enough, staff cost money, but robots are still extremely expensive.
16
WHEN THE CONDITIONS ARE PREDICTABLE, ROBOTISATION IS PERFECTLY FEASIBLE.
city centre isn’t. So, will we be travelling in self-driving cars on the motorway in a few years? Yes, but not in the city centre.
WHAT DOES THIS MESSAGE MEAN FOR THE HORTICULTURAL SECTOR? ‘That it would be a good idea to start continue on page 19 robotising sub-
TECH50
Robotics & Smart machinery
According to the definitions we use here, robotisation in horticulture means using dynamic information to automate manual processes. In other words, a robot completes a task with a physical movement.
*****
GEARBOX INNOVATIONS Maasdijk
****
Gearbox supplies smart robotics with an intelligent combination of vision, AI and real-time data analytics, with GearCore as the scalable brain.
KIND TECHNOLOGIES / CRUX AGRIBOTICS Eindhoven With a smart buy-and-build strategy, KIND is clearly positioning itself within the market for food, agri, and horticultural robotics.
Core product Vision, AI and robotics Since 2016 Stage Scale-up Turnover € 620,000 Employees 23 Ownership Founders, UNIIQ and Orange Wings
Core product Robotics and logistics Since 2012 Stage SME Turnover € 8,000,000 Employees 207 Ownership Gimv, BOM Brabant Ventures
****
ISO GROUP Gameren
****
VISSER HORTI SYSTEMS ’s-Gravendeel Synergy between business units is a key focus at Viscon. Thanks to a new shareholder and technology as the starting point, everything is geared towards further growth. Core product Smart machinery Since 1967 Stage Large enterprise Turnover € 58,620,000 Employees 235 Ownership Family enterprise, Synergia
ISO Group is putting itself definitely on the map with its cuttings planter robot, which is not just a hi-tech innovation, but also a robust and intelligent workhorse. Core product Robotics Since 2002 Stage SME Turnover € 22,000,000 Employees 70 Ownership Cibus Funds
****
TTA Bleskensgraaf TTA supplies ready-made robotic solutions across the entire spectrum of horticulture, for a wide range of crops. Core product Smart machinery Since 1996 Stage SME Turnover Private Employees 51 Ownership Eurogroup
WHAT ELSE IS HAPPENING IN THE WORLD IN THE FIELD OF ROBOTICS & SMART MACHINERY JP
IL
BE
US
GB
DENSO
METOMOTION
OCTINION
ROOTAI
XIHELM
Core product Harvesting robots Since 1949 Stage Corporate Employees 79,267
Core product Harvesting robots Since 2016 Stage Start-up Employees 5
Core product Strawberry harvesting robot and automated guided vehicles (AGVs) Since 2009 Stage Start-up Employees 45
Core product Harvesting robots Since 2018 Stage Start-up Employees 14
Core product Harvesting robots Since 2016 Stage Start-up Employees 13
17
VISION
18
AI & DATA
ROBOTICS
LOGISTICS
+ 31 174 295 714 contact@gearboxinnovations.com www.gearboxinnovations.com
Robotics & Smart machinery
continued from page 16
processes in this area,
too. In my opinion, the company Lely is a
TECH50
clear what’s necessary. They know all the ins
model better and better, with things like VR
and outs, and exactly what they need.’
glasses. These allow you to walk through
good example. They started off by devising
the greenhouse virtually, and experience
in the barn. The horticultural sector should
A DRONE CAN ALSO BE CONSIDERED AS A KIND OF ROBOT. WHAT USES DO YOU SEE FOR THESE DEVICES?
follow this example; start off by dealing with
‘Drones are becoming more and more
part of the problem. What that problem is
autonomous. The disadvantage of using
has to be properly defined by the sector
them indoors is that they’re still very
TO CONCLUDE, WHAT CAN THE HORTICULTURAL SECTOR DO TO ACCELERATE THE USE OF ROBOTICS?
itself. It’s perfectly fine for the technical
noisy, and more at risk of colliding with
‘In my opinion, it all starts with
solution to come from outside the sector,
something. The advantage is that they’re
understanding the real problem. I also
but people from the inside have to make it
becoming cheaper and smarter, and battery
think that horticultural business operators
life is improving. As a result, drones are
and techies need to enter into constructive
very useful as a measuring instrument in the
dialogues, because there may well be
greenhouse. The challenge will be how to
technical solutions that would work very well
use all the smart, handy data they generate.
if a business was set up differently. Then you
Data is only useful if it can be converted
could optimise your business strategy
into actions. A digital twin can help in this
through co-creation. Innovation requires
respect.’
daring and creativity; you have to be brave
a milking robot, which really resolved a problem for farmers. They then started working on further automating processes
THE BIGGEST TASK IS THE QUESTION ABOUT WHETHER THE ROBOT ‘UNDERSTANDS WHAT IT SEES’.
the effect certain measures have on the crop. Really valuable!’
enough to start with a blank sheet of paper
YOU MENTIONED THE DIGITAL TWIN. IS IT ALL HYPE, OR A SERIOUS BREAKTHROUGH?
every now and then. Such an attitude really
‘The name is hype! The tool has been
progress.’
helps both individual business operators and the sector as a whole to make
around for much longer, and in reality it’s nothing more than a simulation model, in other words a virtual representation of your processes in a computer program. What is new is that we can visualise this
19
TECH50
LED WILL BE THE ONE AND ONLY STANDARD IN ILLUMINATED HORTICULTURAL PRODUCTION ‘WITHIN 10 YEARS, WITH A FEW EXCEPTIONS, ONLY LED LIGHTING WILL BE USED IN ILLUMINATED HORTICULTURE,’ PREDICTS SANDER HOGEWONING OF PLANT LIGHTING. ‘SON-T WILL VIRTUALLY DISAPPEAR, AND PROBABLY SOONER THAN A LOT OF PEOPLE THINK. LED IS MUCH MORE EFFICIENT AND FLEXIBLE, WHICH MEANS HIGHER PROFITS.’
S
ander Hogewoning specialised in
is definitely in sight. 2 micromoles may
photosynthesis and plant lighting at
be feasible, but 3 certainly isn’t, so LED
Wageningen University & Research,
is going to win this race.’ However,
and worked there for a number of years
there are also few gains to be made in
as a researcher. In 2011, he launched his
the efficiency of LED lighting. Sander
own company: Plant Lighting. This research
explains that the different colours have a
company in Bunnik (NL) specialises in the
theoretical maximum, and that the LEDs
effects of climate (light intensity, exposure
currently available are already pretty close
time, light spectrum, CO2, temperature,
to achieving them. ‘The red LED, with a
and humidity) on photosynthesis, flowering,
theoretical maximum of 5.5 micromoles, is
and plant shape. The company now has
the most efficient. Red LEDs currently on
8 members of staff, 6 of whom are plant
the market yield around 3.7. There’s still
biologists. According to Sander, there’s still
room for improvement, but a doubling is
a lot of scaremongering about LED lighting
unthinkable. That would win the Nobel
in horticulture, and he’s happy to clear up
Prize,’ he laughs. far-red light, helps in various areas, such as
various misunderstandings.
20
THE EFFICIENCY OF GROW LIGHTS IS AN IMPORTANT AREA AND LED WILL COME OUT ON TOP.
ANTIOXIDANTS
the good rooting, elongation, and flowering
HELFT MINDER ELEKTRICITEIT HALF AS MUCH ELECTRICITY
For grow lights, we measure the
of a plant.
The efficiency of grow lights is an important
photons in this spectrum between 400
PLAYING WITH LIGHT
area, but Sander believes LED will come
(blue) and 700 (red) nm are used by plants
In principle, four types of LED lamps are
out on top. ‘SON-T lamps, the high-
for photosynthesis. ‘But that doesn’t
used in horticultural lighting fixtures: red,
pressure sodium lamps, yield around 1.85
mean that photons with a wavelength
blue, white, and far-red. Red because of
micromoles per Watt. A red LED lamp,
below 400 or above 700 are useless,’
its high energetic efficiency, blue to ensure
on the other hand, produces about 3.7
says Sander. ‘UV light below 400 nm, for
photosynthesis functions properly and
micromoles, so a horticulture company
example, stimulates the production of
to control the plant shape, and far-red
can reduce its electricity consumption by
antioxidants by the plant to protect itself
mainly because it can control properties
almost half. It’s true that SON-T lamps
against this harmful UV light. And these
such as flowering, leaf position, and
could perhaps become a bit more efficient,
very antioxidants are extremely healthy for
but the flattening of this efficiency curve
people. Light above 700 nm, which we call
stem elongation. A white LED is basically continue on page 23 a blue LED with a
photosynthetic active radiation (PAR):
TECH50
Light & LED
Growth is photosynthesis, and photosynthesis is light. Horticulture is all about light. Grow lights signalled a major breakthrough in year-round cultivation. The golden rule of ‘1% more light gives 1% more yield’ has been the guiding principle in developing greenhouse structures with more light, glazing with a higher light transmittance factor, and more efficient lighting. So, how do things stand at the moment?
*****
SIGNIFY Eindhoven Market leader from the Philips stable, with plenty of application knowledge, market power and growth potential. Core product Grow light Since 1891 Stage Corporate Turnover € 6,247,000,000 Employees 37,000 Ownership Listed company
****
HORTILUX SCHRÉDER Monster Hortilux is synonymous with grow lights in horticulture. They never implement technology hastily, but are using it to build a rock-solid reputation. Core product Grow light Since 1997 Stage SME Turnover € 80,486,000 Employees 157 Ownership Dool Industries
***
OREON IJsselstein
***
A pioneer in water-cooled LEDs for horticulture.
PHYSEE Delft
Core product Grow light Since 2007 Stage SME Turnover Private Employees 22 Ownership Private
An unusual company, which mainly works on increasing the light efficiency of glass-covered greenhouses by converting UV light into PAR light. Core product Smart coating Since 2014 Stage Start-up Turnover Private Employees 48 Ownership Clean-Tech Real Estate Consortium, EASME – EU Executive Agency for SMEs
***
MECHATRONIX Breda Unique capability in connecting manufacturers and growers, with a strategy aimed at large market shares Core product Grow light Since 2007 Stage SME Turnover Private Employees 51 Ownership Eight Lakes Group
WHAT ELSE IS HAPPENING IN THE WORLD IN THE FIELD OF LIGHT & LED US
US
SE
US
HU
FLUENCE OSRAM
GE CURRENT
HELIOSPECTRA
LUMIGROW
Core product Grow light Since 2013 Stage Corporate Employees 139
Core product Grow light Since 2015 Stage Corporate Employees 1,900
Core product Grow light Since 2006 Stage Scale-up Employees 35
Core product Grow light Since 2007 Stage Scale-up Employees 28
TUNGSRAM LIGHTING Core product Grow light Since 1896 Stage Corporate Employees 71
21
CONNECTED THROUGH AMBITION
Atrium Agri congratulates her partners with the honorable mention in the HillenraadTech50
atriumagri.com
Worldwide Expertise for Food & Flowers
Innovative high-tech applications for Greenhouse Horticulture
Pa
veowl lop edge m en t
Know Impl led em g e
T +31 (0)317 - 491 578 E info@delphy.nl
Know led
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More information?
ion e ntat
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Light & LED
phosphor layer. Usually,
TECH50
elongation of the plant, but at the end of
could generate more heat and compromise
it’s not necessary for plants, but it does
the cultivation period you want to limit this.
the energetic efficiency.’ He says that
provide an environment in which it’s easy
Then it’s an advantage if you can switch
mainly air-cooled LEDs are currently used.
to work. Without white light, it’s difficult
off the far-red LED.’ In addition to the four
‘In principle, water-cooled LEDs are more
to distinguish colours: a red tomato, for
colours red, blue, white, and far red, Sander
efficient, because the lighting fixture is more
example, appears orange. Sander: ‘By
believes that an additional UV LED could
compact and you can reuse the heat. But in
controlling the different LEDs separately,
be added. However, he’s certainly not in
practice, things are more complex, as you
you can play with the different properties of
favour of lighting fixtures with 10 different
need a cooling system, pipes, and pumps.
light. For example, we conducted research
LED lamps. ‘Some people imagine a future
As a result, it’s really only worth considering
on Lisianthus. Far-red ensures the necessary
where you use one LED in the spring and
if you build a new greenhouse and it fits
another in the autumn, and one in the
into the overall system.’ In summary, Sander
morning and another in the afternoon.
concludes: ‘Whatever way you look at it,
I can’t see that happening. It would involve
LED is the future, but there are still plenty of
too much expense in LED chips and lighting
aspects that need to be looked at critically,
fixtures that you only use occasionally, which
especially in terms of the control properties
wouldn’t be profitable.’
of light. How do you influence growth and
continued from page 20
BY CONTROLLING THE DIFFERENT LEDS SEPARATELY, YOU CAN PLAY WITH THE DIFFERENT PROPERTIES OF LIGHT.
fruit set, for example? So, plenty of things
ECONOMIC OPTIMUM
to discuss.’
This immediately brings him to a major disadvantage of LED lighting: the price. Compared to SON-T, for example, LEDs are likely to remain relatively expensive in the coming years. And what’s the smartest decision: the most efficient but expensive LEDs, or the less efficient and cheaper LEDs? ‘It’s really important to calculate where the economic optimum lies,’ advises Sander. ‘In addition, the more LEDs there are on a lighting fixture, the cheaper the installation. However a high LED power
23
TECH50
SOONER OR LATER, AS-ASERVICE CONCEPTS WILL APPEAR IN THE HORTICULTURAL SECTOR GREENHOUSE TECHNOLOGY-AS-A-SERVICE. IN OTHER WORDS, THE CUSTOMER MIGHT THEN NO LONGER ASK FOR A GREENHOUSE, BUT FOR A CERTAIN YIELD OF TOMATOES, FOR EXAMPLE. IT’S COMPARABLE TO THE SWITCH FROM CAR OWNERSHIP TO MOBILITY-AS-A-SERVICE; PEOPLE DON’T WANT TO OWN A CAR, THEY WANT MOBILITY. I’M SURE THAT WE’LL ENCOUNTER THESE KINDS OF SERVICE CONCEPTS ON A LARGE SCALE IN THE HORTICULTURAL SECTOR WITHIN THE NEXT DECADE.
A
nnie van de Riet, chair of the
More Venlo greenhouses have been built
Netherlands, can’t be used in its standard
AVAG (the branch association of
around the world than any other type of
form,’ according to Annie. She predicts that
greenhouse builders and installers
greenhouse, so it would appear they’re
the production of greenhouses will partly
in greenhouse horticulture) doesn’t know
completely optimised and fully developed.
shift to outside the Netherlands. On the one
when it will come, only that it’s simply a
That doesn’t imply, by any means, that
hand, it’s because some countries require
matter of time.
the drive to innovate among greenhouse
that part of the production is local, and on
builders and installers in the greenhouse
the other Annie says it’s due to more and
cultivation sector has come to a standstill.
more companies realising that it’s crazy to
Annie explains: ‘The latest developments
ship steel all over the world. ‘It’s obvious
are less focussed on the construction of
that this can be done differently and more
the greenhouse and much more on its
efficiently. The COVID-19 pandemic has
components, such as climate control and
accelerated this shift. We’re increasingly
installations, and in particular the interaction
moving towards ‘local for local’, and want
between these components. I expect most
to end the practice of dragging products
innovation will be found in this area.’
all over the world.’ This evolution will result
WE’RE INCREASINGLY MOVING TOWARDS ‘LOCAL FOR LOCAL’, AND WANT TO END THE PRACTICE OF DRAGGING PRODUCTS ALL OVER THE WORLD. 24
in many Dutch greenhouse builders and
LOCAL FOR LOCAL
suppliers moving from pure production to
The chair of AVAG outlines a situation
engineering and contracting. Annie points
where the role of cultivation control is
out that this requires staff with different
becoming increasingly dominant, and where
skills. ‘It means IT specialists and data
this technology is being integrated more
analysts will have to be hired, for example.
and more into the other elements of the
Getting these professionals interested in
greenhouse. This is a logical development,
our sector is quite a challenge.’
given that Dutch companies no longer only build greenhouses in the Netherlands, but
AFTERSALES
also (in fact more so) in other parts of the
When greenhouses or installations are
world. ‘Increasingly in areas that require
delivered abroad, aftersales is another
specific climate solutions and where the
point that requires attention. Annie has
standard Venlo greenhouse, which was
noticed that it’s becoming more common continue on page 27 for companies to
developed in the Netherlands and for the
TECH50
Greenhouse technology
*****
CERTHON Poeldijk A focus on technological breakthroughs has already enabled Certhon to make enormous strides forward. Its in-house Closed Environment Agriculture R&D provides high-quality expertise in year-round growing.
****
KUBO GROUP Monster The ultra-clima greenhouse was the first step in advanced clima control. The new Blue Lab is the next step towards careless cultivation. Core product Turnkey projects Since 1945 Stage Large enterprise Turnover € 202,000,000 Employees 130 Ownership Family enterprise, NPM Capital
Core product Turnkey projects Since 1896 Stage Large enterprise Turnover € 109,600,000 Employees 149 Ownership Family enterprise, DENSO
When it was invented, the greenhouse was intended to extend the season. The greenhouse has since evolved into a piece of high-tech that allows growers to cultivate their desired crops year-round in any climate. The efficient use of light, energy and water is an essential aspect. In this domain, we come across companies that bring together all the necessary techniques and technologies in turnkey greenhouse complexes. This involves more than just the greenhouse and its installations.
****
VAN DER HOEVEN Horticultural Projects Den Hoorn As part of Arvesta, together with Patron Agri, Hortiplan and Benfried, a technology partner that can handle a multitude of projects. Core product Turnkey projects Since 1953 Stage Large enterprise Turnover € 130,000,000 Employees 125 Ownership Arvesta, management
****
BOSMAN VAN ZAAL Aalsmeer One of the family to the big breeding companies. Uses its technological expertise to ensure that the latest technology is applied at all times in the creation of state-of-the-art research greenhouses. Core product Turnkey projects Since 1926 Stage Large enterprise Turnover € 54,175,000 Employees 208 Ownership Management
****
ATRIUM AGRI Maasland
This alliance of technology companies is a source of complementary expertise and drive. Works globally in cooperation with Havecon, Bom Groep, PB Tec, VB, JB Hydroponics, HOK and VEK. Core product Turnkey projects Since 2020 Stage Alliance Turnover Private Employees Private Ownership Founders
WHAT ELSE IS HAPPENING IN THE WORLD IN THE FIELD OF GREENHOUSE TECHNOLOGY US
CN
MX
FR
ES
GIBRALTAR INDUSTRIES
KINGPENG
ORBIA / NETAFIM / GAKON
RICHEL GROUP
RUFEPA
Core product Turnkey projects Since 1964 Stage Large enterprise Employees 230
Core product Turnkey projects Since 1995 Stage Large enterprise Employees 51
Core product Turnkey projects Since 1972 Stage Corporate Employees 2,337
Core product Turnkey projects Since 2003 Stage Large enterprise Employees 150
Core product Turnkey projects Since 1965 Stage Corporate Employees 5,000
25
Growing anything, anywhere. For everyone.
Imagine a world where anything can be grown anywhere. No matter the season or climate. At Certhon we change the world’s growing system from within. For a world where everyone has access to healthy, safe, local and sustainable food. Tomatoes in the desert. Lettuce in North America. Strawberries in Hong Kong. It is possible. Our high tech solutions in the field of greenhouses, indoor farms and robotics are the living proof. Like our latest project: the world’s most advanced indoor farm in Abu Dhabi. With an outside temperature of 50 degrees Celsius, the finest tomatoes are grown in a smart and sustainable indoor environment. How we pull it off? By combining smart technology and plant science with the will to take on the most complex challenges. That’s the way to grow results. Guaranteed.
Fresh tomatoes in the desert, 50 degrees.
www.certhon.com
Floriculture
Food
Pharmaceuticals
TURNKEY GREENHOUSES YOUR VISION OUR SOLUTION T +31 297 344 344 E info@bosmanvanzaal.com www.bosmanvanzaal.com
Greenhouse technology
continued from page 24
open a local branch.
‘It’s not that difficult to get DNL to deliver
TECH50
a moped. To get the most out of the Tesla,
GROWING-AS-A-SERVICE
the driver needs some guidance!’
According to Annie, the importance of this data hub is illustrative of how the focus of
parts for an installation in Canada, but how do you make sure you can provide
STRONG COMPETITIVE POSITION
innovation in the greenhouse construction
good service there? You can’t organise
The Netherlands is still a leading, dominant
and installation sector has shifted from the
everything from the Netherlands, so you
player in greenhouse construction and
hardware side (the greenhouse and the
need local businesses.’ She knows of some
greenhouse horticulture installation
installations) to the software and data side.
companies who are considering joining
technology. Annie is optimistic about the
Whereas the greenhouse or installation
forces in this respect, and setting up
country’s strong competitive position,
used to be the main product, these
things such as a service office with a local
but she warns people to stay on their
days it’s principally about the interaction
partner. Some businesses adopt a different
guard. ‘China is going to overtake us, and
between all elements. Eventually, there
approach, and take over a local player so
we’re bound to cross paths with Chinese
will be a shift towards growing-as-a-service
that aftersales can be better organised.
greenhouse builders and installers in other
or greenhouse technology-as-a-service.
Another aspect that has to be considered
parts in the world. We can still differentiate
‘It will be a gradual process. I expect that
is that greenhouses and all their associated
our product in terms of quality, but we have
we’ll be able to move to autonomous
technology are becoming increasingly
to work hard to maintain our lead. That’s
production units within the next five years,
complex. Annie: ‘I sometimes compare it
why I’m so happy with a foundation like
and have fully autonomous greenhouses
to giving a Tesla to someone who still rides
Hortivation, which stimulates innovation.
within ten years. Then, growing-as-a-service
And that’s a never-ending task; both
will be technically feasible. Incidentally,
individual companies and the sector as a
this concept is obviously not of interest or
whole must continue to make advances.’
doable for every horticultural business.’
EVENTUALLY, THERE WILL BE A SHIFT TOWARDS GROWING-AS-ASERVICE.
She says that Hortivation is taking various initiatives in this respect. The development of a data hub is a nice example. This infrastructure allows the various parties involved in greenhouse horticulture to exchange data. ‘We’ve already created a prototype. After the pilot phase, we’ll roll it out further.’
27
TECH50
SENSOR TECHNOLOGY FOCUSSED ON REAL-TIME MEASUREMENTS THERE’S NO GETTING ROUND IT: MEASUREMENTS ARE THE KEY TO KNOWLEDGE. THAT’S WHY WE’VE BEEN COLLECTING HORTICULTURE DATA FOR MANY YEARS, WHICH WE USE TO OPTIMISE CULTIVATION TECHNIQUES. TEMPERATURE, HUMIDITY AND CO2 MEASUREMENTS HAVE BECOME AN ESSENTIAL PART OF OUR WORK, AND MORE AND MORE PARAMETERS ARE BEING MEASURED.
M
arcel Zevenbergen, programme
technology, such as measuring sap flows,
manager at OnePlanet Research
temperature, humidity, CO2, and light.
Center and Holst Centre, foresees
Researchers must be able to access this
a whole range of innovations in the field of
data easily. On the other hand, we’re also
sensors. ‘There’s considerable interest in
looking at what information is still missing.
non-destructive, continuous and real-time
For example, our understanding of plant
measurements in particular.’
physiology is still insufficient, such as what exactly happens in a plant’s root zone.
The OnePlanet Research Center is
At the moment, measurements are often
a partnership between Wageningen
taken once a week in the drain, but the
University & Research, Radboud University,
activity is much more dynamic. Plants have a
Radboudumc, and the nano-technology
day-night rhythm, and nutrient requirements
afterwards. Note, however, that we’re not
innovation centre imec. Holst Centre, an
differ at each stage of growth. Ideally,
there yet. This concept is still in its infancy.’
initiative by imec and TNO, is an innovation
measurements should therefore be carried
centre for sensor technology. Marcel is a
out continuously, not once a week.’
programme manager at both OnePlanet
28
RESEARCHERS MUST BE ABLE TO ACCESS SENSOR DATA EASILY.
Since continuous measurement is still a thing of the future, OnePlanet is
and Holst Centre, so he’s involved in a wide
MICRONEEDLE
working on applications that can be used
range of innovations.
Continuous measurements are also useful
right now, such as a handheld nitrate
when determining components, such as
meter. ‘We worked with the end user on
PREDICT AND ANTICIPATE
sugar. Marcel explains that OnePlanet is
developing this device and the initial
‘In order to make advances in the use of
working on a new sensor concept for the
prototypes. In the end, the market will have
sensors, it’s important that we improve our
non-destructive real-time measurement
to further develop this innovation by itself.’
understanding of the planting process,’
of sugar content in a fruit. ‘Imagine,
says Marcel. ‘We want to interpret and use
for example, a microneedle that takes
VISUAL TECHNOLOGY
data so that we can predict and anticipate.
a measurement in a tomato without
Another interesting development in sensor
A digital twin - a digital counterpart - can
damaging it. The next step is a sensor that
technology concerns a device called a
help here. That’s why, on the one hand,
continuously measures the sugar content,
hyperspectral camera. This camera can
we’re working on making sure we’ve got
so that the data generated can be used to
detect hundreds of colours, far more than
the right information available for the
make adjustments. That’s obviously much
digital twin. This mainly involves existing
more useful than taking measurements
the 3 wavelengths that the human eye can continue on page 31 distinguish. This makes
TECH50
Sensing & data collection
Collecting data is a crucial building block in automating processes in horticulture. Originally, this involved a box in the greenhouse that measured temperature, humidity, and CO2. These days, there are many other types of sensors available for different applications, and they are more affordable and accurate. Besides fixed sensors and cameras, drones are also useful for collecting data. What are the latest developments inside and outside the greenhouse?
****
SIGROW Wageningen Sigrow supplies many types of sensors, of which the Stomata Camera is perhaps the most revolutionary.
****
CE-LINE Heerenveen The next step in precision farming requires ionspecific fertilisation, for which the Celine sensor offers a solution. Core product Sensor for real-time fertiliser measurement Since 2015 Stage Start-up Turnover Private Employees 5 Ownership The Sensor Factory
Core product Sensors to monitor plant growth at any location Since 2015 Stage Start-up Turnover Private Employees 7 Ownership Founders, EU Executive Agency for Small and Medium-sized Enterprises (EASME)
****
PHENOVATION Wageningen Measure and collect all kinds of data on growth of plants, seeds and seedlings with smart sensors and cameras. Core product Camera technique for phenotyping Since 2011 Stage Start-up Turnover € 1,000,000 Employees 6 Ownership Founders, StartLife, Participatiemaatschappij Oost Nederland (PPM Oost, a Regional Venture Capital Fund) Sensory data collection with conversion into 3D images, a powerful tool for phenotyping.
***
PHENOSPEX Heerlen
Core product Vision and multispectral sensors Since 2010 Stage Start-up Turnover Private Employees 21 Ownership Founders, Future Food Fund, NV Industriebank LIOF, Nedermaas Hightech Ventures
***
ADI (AgriData Innovations) Delft
Started life as Applied Drone Innovations, but understood that everything revolves around data monitoring in a broader sense. Core product Data collection and visualisation Since 2015 Stage Start-up Turnover Private Employees 16 Ownership Founders, Dutch Research Council (NWO), Yes!Delft, Rabobank, MIT Feasibility Grant, Inholland
WHAT ELSE IS HAPPENING IN THE WORLD IN THE FIELD OF SENSING & DATA COLLECTION BE
US
CA
DE
NZ
2GROW
DYNAMAX
ECOATION
LEMNATEC
WAYBEYOND
Core product Sap flow and trunk diameter monitors Since 2017 Stage Start-up Employees 6
Core product Plant and environmental monitoring sensors Since 1989 Stage SME Employees 30
Core product Monitoring and scouting of crops Since 2010 Stage Start-up Employees 19
Core product Sensors and applications for phenotyping Since 1998 Stage SME Employees 24
Core product Wireless multisensors and monitoring management Since 2016 Stage Start-up Employees 11
29
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continued from page 28
it easier to detect
things much earlier, such as changes in the
TECH50
measuring a certain parameter, and whether
EXPONENTIAL DEVELOPMENT
investing in it generates enough return.’
In the coming years, Marcel expects that the main focus will be on collecting real-time
leaves of a crop. Marcel: ‘We’re currently working on a project to see if we can use
Marcel also mentions the use of more
insights. That means collecting data during
a hyperspectral camera to detect fruit
robots as an alternative, because while
the entire cultivation process, and making
damage caused by the brown marmorated
robots are performing their tasks in the
adjustments immediately if there’s reason to
stink bug. This technology could be
greenhouse or in the field, they can also
do so. He believes that waiting for quality-
extremely valuable in identifying these and
measure all kinds of parameters. ‘This
control results after harvesting will become
other subcutaneous defects in time.’ He
goes further than a scout robot that
an outdated concept. ‘Before we get to
expects hyperspectral technology to be
detects diseases or pests: we’re looking
this stage, the main challenge is to clarify
used for more applications, and that other,
for ways to detect problems at an earlier
what we’re going to do with all the data
more advanced visual technology, such as
stage. This area is developing rapidly.
and insights that we’re collecting. Sensor
radar and terahertz, will also be deployed.
Some technologies are already mature,
technology is developing exponentially, but
‘That will allow us to look even deeper into
others are still in their infancy.’
it’s difficult to predict the exact direction in which it will take us.’
the plant and measure parameters such as the moisture content in leaves. We may even be able to predict the opening and closing of the stomata.’
SCOUT ROBOTS Although some sensors and sensor technologies still need more development, we can already measure a lot of things. The next question is how much data do we need or want to collect. ‘One sensor per hectare isn’t enough, so what’s a realistic density? The price of sensors obviously plays an important role here. Businesses will always have to consider the benefits of
IN THE COMING YEARS, THE MAIN FOCUS WILL BE ON COLLECTING REAL-TIME INSIGHTS. 31
WHY THESE ‘GEEKS’ CHOSE HORTICULTURE Google, Booking, Coolblue and Fox IT – big names and enviable employers. However, Jan van der Lugt, Robert Nilsson, Matthias Schuurmans and Patric Stout decided to leave their ranks and join the apparently less glamorous company, Priva. Nevertheless, the company turned out to be the very opposite of that. The four colleagues are remarkably unanimous in their reasons behind the switch. They deliberately chose a company that isn’t just focussed on making money, but which also pays attention to how it can benefit society. In any case, these ‘geeks’ are finding that can genuinely put their interest in technology and IT to good use at Priva’s head office in De Lier.
F
Lead data scientist Matthias Schuurmans says that he knew almost nothing about the horticultural sector when he left Coolblue, his previous employer. It wasn’t necessarily the direction he was looking for, but he did know that he wanted to do something about the climate problem. ‘I was becoming more and more worried about climate change and was looking for a company or sector that could play a positive role in finding a solution. I came into contact with Priva through a recruiter. During the introductory meetings, I quickly found out
or Jan van der Lugt, switching from
particular need is catered for, and that the
that its mission was even more important
Google to Priva was almost literally a
long term is more important than quick
than profit. Obviously money is important
matter of coming home, as he grew
wins. For example, this is noticeable, in the
to keep a company healthy, but here it’s
up just around the corner. In his words: ‘I
attention that is paid to sustainability. ‘As a
more of a means than an end in itself. That’s
learned an incredible amount at Google
system engineer, I’m involved in a project
something I really appreciate.’ Matthias was
and had a great time. Google does, of
aimed at saving energy. We really take the
surprised by the importance of technology
course, do all kinds of cool and great
time for this as a company, as it’s something
in the horticultural sector. At Priva, he works
things, but in the end you’re only working
we personally believe is important.
on creating new digital services based on
there to make profits and create value for
Priva doesn’t have to account for this to
all the data collected in greenhouses and
shareholders, and make sure the Gartner
shareholders in the short term. What counts
by customers. ‘It’s a lot more data than I was
ranking is high. At a certain point, I started
is that ultimately, we succeed in finding a
expecting, so it’s all very interesting!’
to wonder if I this was how I wanted to
really robust solution.’
spend my days. What was I really doing for society and the world?’ At Priva, which is a family-run company, Jan notices that this
32
CONCERNS ABOUT CLIMATE CHANGE
TECH50 INTERVIEW EXPERT IN DATA-DRIVEN DECISIONMAKING
he left because he was getting paranoid
The customer decides what they need.
and seeing hackers lurking in every corner.
That’s something we’re already used to
Robert Nilsson, who is of Swedish origin,
Then, seriously: ‘I promised myself that
in the cloud environment. In my opinion,
spent ten years at Booking.com before
I’ll always set two requirements for the
Priva is primarily a platform for all kinds of
joining Priva as a tech lead for the cloud
company I’ll be working for: it has to have
products and services.’
platform team. He says he learned a lot
a social impact, and the CEO has to know
about data-driven decision-making in
what I’m doing. That second requirement
Jan observes that the world around us
his previous job. ‘Booking.com was at
means I would have been very unlikely to
is becoming increasingly complex, and
the forefront of applying this method.
find myself working in a company with ten
that it’s Priva’s task to help customers
This approach has since been widely
thousand employees.’ Priva, however, met
find their way around it. ‘An enormous
adopted. All decisions are made on the
both conditions. Patric says that he finds it
amount of data is becoming available,
basis of data, which is exactly the direction
fascinating that he’s now working in a sector
and technology is offering more and more
we in the horticultural sector increasingly
that can actually help solve the global food
possibilities. We help our customers make
want to move in.’ Two factors played a role
issue. He believes the current food supply
the right choices within that complex
in Robert’s decision to leave Booking.com.
system is unsustainable. ‘We need to move
environment.’ Matthias adds: ‘Trust is the
He also wanted to work for a company
to local, scalable solutions. In this respect,
key. Customers must be able to trust us,
that was doing something about climate
technology, data and IT are becoming more
and it helps if we can provide shed light on
change. Ultimately, selling as many hotel
important than mere crop expertise or
the process. That could involve explaining
nights as possible wasn’t what he wanted.
green fingers.’
and visualising how things work. The system
‘I also came to the conclusion that my way
or model used by customers mustn’t feel
of working was less and less suited to the
A COMPLEX WORLD
like a ‘black box’, but rather as a transparent
culture at Booking.com, for example, the
When asked about the vision of the future
process they have some influence over.
amount of freedom to do your work as
for horticulture, Patric thinks that a kind
Only then can you be willing to outsource
you see fit. Am I given that freedom here?
of plug & play solution will emerge in the
decisions and use AI’
Absolutely!’
long run. ‘Does someone want to grow tomatoes anywhere in the world? If so, they
SOCIAL IMPACT
will be able to order a box with everything
Tech lead Patric Stout is the fourth ‘geek’
they need, and the job’s done.’ He goes on
at the table, a cybersecurity specialist who
make more predictions. ‘More integration,
previously worked at Fox IT. He jokes that
and a lot more individualised solutions.
33
TECH50
A JOINT STRATEGY IS NEEDED FOR THE TRANSITION TO INDUSTRY 4.0 ‘THE NETHERLANDS IS ONE OF THE TOP 3 GLOBAL MANUFACTURERS AND EXPORTERS OF TECHNOLOGY FOR THE FOOD AND AGRICULTURAL SECTOR, BUT THE COMPETITION IS HOT ON OUR HEELS. WE REALLY MUST TAKE STEPS TO MAINTAIN THAT LEADING POSITION,’ SAYS MARCEL VAN HAREN.
M
arcel van Haren is Agriculture,
sector is very fragmented, and working
INDEPENDENT DATABASE
Water & Food programme
together isn’t always its strongest point,
For this reason, Marcel believes that various
manager at the FME, the
but it’s together that we have to take this
things first have to happen in terms of
organisation for businesspeople in the
big step forward. Because there will come
data. One example is a regulated central
technological industry. We talk to him about
a time when we’re going to be caught
European database, which could be a
what horticulture can learn from process
by surprise by a foreign horticultural
valuable asset to the sector. Marcel says
integration in industry, and the form that
automation company that wasn’t even on
that such a database must be independent,
the 4th Industrial Revolution, also known as
our radar.’
similar to how Swift works for the banking sector. ‘Our food production is becoming
Industry 4.0, will take on.
SHARING INFORMATION
increasingly large-scale, and this could
Marcel is genuinely concerned about
Data plays an essential role in Industry 4.0.
mean that data is only available from a
the position of the Netherlands on the
Marcel explains that it involves optimising
limited number of companies. The question
technology list for the food sector and
the chain and deploying robots and
is whether this is a smart choice in the
agribusiness. He is seeing major, important
automation, but goes on to say that many
context of risk management. Do we want
developments taking place, especially in
of these innovations and improvements will
to be dependent on a handful of large
America and China. His advice? ‘The sector
only succeed if the data is in order. ‘Data
companies? We have to be smarter…’
needs a solid, joint strategy for the
is therefore a means rather than a goal in
Marcel notes that the horticultural sector
transition to Industry 4.0. The horticultural
itself,’ he explains. ‘To use this resource to
would also benefit if data standards were
the maximum, businesses have to share
defined. ‘The importance of such a standard
information with each other. That’s a sticking
is sometimes the subject of discussion,
point, because some business operators
because it’s possible that software will
prefer to keep the data to themselves.
become so intelligent that a standard is
Studies by Wageningen University &
no longer necessary. Before that happens,
Research shows that data sharing projects
however, we still have to draw up mutual
frequently fail because of issues such as a
agreements and protocols.’
WE FORGET TO IMPLEMENT THE SMART THINGS THAT HAVE ALREADY BEEN DEVISED. 34
lack of mutual interaction, the rules of the game, standards, and understanding of each other’s business models.’
FULLY AUTONOMOUS CONTROLLED PRODUCTION PROCESSES? In the automotive sector, the concept continue on page 37 of Industry 4.0 has
TECH50
Smart proces control
*****
HOOGENDOORN GROEP Vlaardingen
****
The IVVO process computer, designed from scratch with a focus on optimal user experience (UX), takes things to the next level. An IT house in a broad sense, focused on Plant Empowerment.
RIDDER GROUP Harderwijk
Core product Climate and irrigation automation Since 1967 Stage Large enterprise Turnover € 20,000,000* Employees 84 Ownership Batenburg Techniek
With climate computers, irrigation control and the open Hortos platform, Ridder is putting itself on the map as a progressive technology player in process control.
***
Core product Climate and irrigation automation Since 1953 Stage Large enterprise Turnover € 68,193,000 Employees 269 Ownership Family enterprise
The area of process integration and smart process control includes the integration of the various systems responsible for climate control, irrigation, energy management, raw materials management, production planning, inventory management, sales information, management information, and the ERP. There is still room for major advances, both inside a business and in general.
SERCOM REGELTECHNIEK Lisse With downward compatibility back to 1984, Sercom’s solutions are extremely robust. Wireless communication between field station and process computer is their next stap in innovation Core product Climate automation Since 1984 Stage SME Turnover € 3,200,000 Employees 25 Ownership Private
WERE YOU EXPECTING TO FIND PRIVA HERE TOO? ON PAGE 15, WE EXPLAIN WHY PRIVA IS NOT INCLUDED IN THE RANKING IN THIS THEME EDITION.
***
AEM (Agricultural Engineering Manufacturing) Maasbree With extensive expertise in greenhouse horticulture and mushroom cultivation, vertical farming may very well be the next step. Core product Climate automation Since 1973 Stage SME Turnover Private Employees 60 Ownership Private
WHAT ELSE IS HAPPENING IN THE WORLD IN THE FIELD OF SMART PROCES CONTROL CA
US
NZ
IL
IT
ARGUS CONTROL SYSTEMS
ARTEMIS
AUTOGROW
CROPX
EVJA
Core product Computer control systems for indoor farms Since 2015 Stage Start-up Employees 13
Core product Automation and control systems for greenhouses Since 1994 Stage SME Employees 45
Core product Control systems to boost yields Since 2014 Stage Start-up Employees 35
Core product Monitoring crop growth and climate Since 2015 Stage Start-up Employees 9
Core product Computer control systems for indoor farms Since 1984 Stage SME Employees 180
35
36
ridder.com
Smart proces control
TECH50
fully autonomous processes in greenhouses
INNOVATION VS IMPLEMENTATION
indispensable. Marcel describes VDL
is still very large. I think we’ll get there
The FME programme manager has noticed
Nedcar as a good, inspiring example.
eventually.’ Incidentally, Marcel doesn’t
that there’s plenty of interest in innovation
‘Everything at Nedcar is focused on
think that this will mean the end of the
in the horticultural sector, but implementing
flexibility, and robots and process
need for human staff. ‘The great thing
new ideas can be slow. ‘It seems as if
integration based are deployed as
about automation and robotisation is
we’re addicted to innovation: a kind of
effectively as possible based on linked
that monotonous, heavy and sometimes
permanent hope that ‘it’ will improve one
data. That remains a distant future for
seasonal work is no longer dependent on
day, and a better solution will be found.
the horticultural sector. The step from
people. But we know from the automotive
We forget to implement the smart things
greenhouses with climate and IT systems to
industry that human input is still needed in
that have already been devised, and leave
the manufacturing process.’
them on the shelf. I’m in favour of doing
continued from page 34
become particularly
the opposite, and to start working with
THERE WILL COME A TIME WHEN WE’RE GOING TO BE CAUGHT BY SURPRISE BY A HORTICULTURAL AUTOMATION COMPANY FROM THE OUTSIDE.
SUPPORTED BY GENETICS
innovations quickly, instead of waiting
Marcel believes that many technology
for the next one that might offer a small
companies don’t realise how complicated it
improvement. That wastes even more years,
is to apply automation in horticulture. In his
which is absolutely tragic. By the way, this
view, getting a robot to pick a tomato is a
attitude isn’t limited to the horticultural
lot more difficult than getting it to tighten a
sector; you see it in every area, and it’s
screw, because a tomato is a living product.
very human. If you know that a new type
‘I know that people have been working for
of smartphone or TV will be launched in
25 years on a robot that can pick apples, so
six months, you’d probably wait for that
far without success. Part of the solution lies
too. Not illogical, but not always wise
in genetics: a strawberry with a longer stem
either. Sometimes implementation is more
would be easier to harvest. A lot of data can
important than innovation!’
also help in the design of good calculation models. Overall, I think we’re still quite a long way from comprehensive robotisation in horticulture.’
37
TECH50
ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE WILL BE ONE OF THE MOST IMPORTANT TOOLS IN HORTICULTURE JIM STOLZE SAYS THE FOLLOWING ABOUT THE POTENTIAL OF AI IN HORTICULTURE: ‘HORTICULTURE CAN’T RELY ON AI ALONE, BUT IT WILL BECOME ONE OF THE MOST IMPORTANT TOOLS.’
W
riter and entrepreneur Jim Stolze
nerds. That’s because, on the one hand,
AI. AI isn’t magic, it’s just the next stage of
has specialised in the uses of AI
exploiting data is still in its infancy, and
digitisation.’
(artificial intelligence) for many
there are plenty of major advances to be
years. He’s the initiator of the Nationale
made. On the other hand, it’s because this
RECOGNISING PATTERNS
AI-Cursus (Dutch National AI Course).
sector is important for society. Isn’t it great
Data is therefore an indispensable
Together with his company Aigency, he
to be able to help respond to the major
ingredient if you want to exploit AI.
provides AI solutions to major companies
issue of how we’re going to continue to
Jim gives an example: ‘If you want to use
and organisations, such as Heineken, Talpa,
feed the world’s population?’
AI for scheduling, you need historical data. That means: what was your schedule last
and the Dutch Ministry of Health, Welfare
GEEN MAGIE NOTHING MAGIC
week, last month, and even last year on the
Jim is the son of a greenhouse builder
AI has an important role to play in this
patterns, and uses this to make predictions.
and a horticulturist’s daughter, so he’s
major issue. It can help optimise cultivation,
A good AI system lets you “look under the
very familiar with the world of horticulture.
predict supply and demand, and robotise
bonnet” yourself, and see how the system
He earned his first pocket money in the
harvesting and sorting through intelligent
arrives at a decision. You can then make
greenhouses, but his father advised him at
image processing. In this respect, Jim notes
adjustments if necessary.’ If the data you use
an early age to choose a different sector.
that AI is just one of the tools available.
is incorrect, the entire system is worthless.
‘I was always interested in computers. At the
‘And that’s really how businesses should see
According to Jim, this happens much more
time, they were barely used in horticulture.
it: as a means, rather than an end in itself.’
often than you might expect. It might be
That’s completely changed. These days,
He also emphasises that it isn’t possible
because a business wrongly assumes that
it’s a fantastic area to work in for geeks and
to implement AI overnight. He explains:
all the data in the ERP system is correct.
‘AI is all about recognising patterns and
His recommendation: ‘Employ, or hire in,
calculating probabilities. A device or piece
some young people with the right skills to
of software then uses data to recommend
collect, assess, and verify data. That really is
the most logical decision. It’s therefore
a first step to success.’
and Sport.
AI ISN’T MAGIC, IT’S JUST THE NEXT STAGE OF DIGITISATION. 38
exact same day? An AI system recognises
essential that sufficient data is available, and that this data is correct. Those businesses
IS BLOCKCHAIN A SOLUTION?
that have consistently invested in digital
When you talk about data, the conversation
transformation in recent years are the
quickly turns to blockchain. This is another continue on page 41 area where Jim sees
ones most likely to reap the benefits of
TECH50
Data science
Here, the domain of data science involves the collection, processing and management of data for pattern recognition, intelligent optimisation of systems and processes, decision support and predictive modelling. That may sound abstract, but it has already trickled through to daily operations in horticulture.
*****
BLUE RADIX Rotterdam The great ambition of Blue Radix is to create data-driven algorithms that unlock scarce, in-depth horticultural knowledge and make greenhouse cultivation autonomous.
****
SOURCE.AG Delft A select team of top specialists who develop AI applications in direct partnership with leading growers and suppliers.
Core product Autonomous growing Since 2020 Stage Start-up Turnover 454,000 Employees 14 Ownership Founders
Core product Growth models Since 2020 Stage Start-up Turnover Private Employees 15 Ownership Founders, investors
****
DELPHY Bleiswijk Delphy Digital as a disruptor of Delpy’s own business model means an increasingly bigger role for growth models and controlled farming based on data science. Core product Growth models Since 1999 Stage SME Turnover € 30,852,000 Employees 140 Ownership Management
***
B-MEX Wageningen Online advisory services based on crop growth models with scientific knowledge. Core product Growth models Since 2013 Stage Start-up Turnover Private Employees 3 Ownership Founders
***
PYLOT Monster A smart, controllable production process is being developed in partnership with international users of Kubo greenhouse technology. Core product Production management Since 2019 Stage Start-up Turnover Private Employees 5 Ownership Kubo
WHAT ELSE IS HAPPENING IN THE WORLD IN THE FIELD OF DATA SCIENCE US
GB
US
IL
BE
BENSON HILL
HUMMINGBIRD TECHNOLOGIES
IUNU
PROSPERA
ROBOVISION
Core product Precision growing for indoor agtech Since 2013 Stage Scale-up Employees 31
Core product Monitoring and analysis of plant health and growth Since 2014 Stage Scale-up Employees 79
Core product AI, vision and machine learning for robotics Since 2009 Stage Scale-up Employees 70
Core product Data analytics and AI to develop healthier food Since 2012 Stage Scale-up Employees 177
Core product Image analysis and prediction based on vision and AI Since 2015 Stage Scale-up Employees 70
39
Greenhouse automation Logiqs Shuttle Benching Systems lead the industry in terms of flexibility, scalability, and reliability
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Cultivation Systems | Warehouse Automation | Vertical Farming
Data science
continued from page 38
opportunities for the
horticultural sector. ‘Many people still have cold feet. Companies and organisations are wary, and don’t want to share all their data with each other. However, they don’t have to. As far as I’m concerned, blockchain is about giving access to data, not sharing data.’ Above all, he sees opportunities for blockchain in the logistics chain. ‘Even when very different businesses want to work together, for example from other sectors or industries, blockchain can be a solution, and AI will have an important role to play in this.’
AI HORTICULTURAL SCHOOL Jim therefore sees enormous opportunities in horticulture for the use of data. He says that some businesses lack understanding if they don’t view themselves as data companies. ‘Every company generates data, and if you’re not doing anything with it now, you have to start storing and structuring it right away.’ Because the importance of
TECH50
EVERY COMPANY GENERATES DATA, AND IF YOU’RE NOT DOING ANYTHING WITH IT NOW, YOU HAVE TO START STORING AND STRUCTURING IT RIGHT AWAY.
data is so great, the AI specialist advocates what he calls ‘an AI horticultural school or
be sure that they’ll enjoy working in the
AI testing ground’. ‘The horticultural sector
sector; it’s an area in which they can really
itself must lead the way here. This subject is
exploit their creativity. The Jimmie from
too important to leave to others. Besides,
back then would be completely at home
it’s an excellent opportunity to attract more
here!’
young students to horticulture. You can also
41
TECH50
REALLY UNDERSTANDING THE DEMAND; THAT’S WHAT IT ALL BOILS DOWN TO THE TERM PLATFORM ECONOMY IS POPPING UP MORE AND MORE IN HORTICULTURE, AND IS SEEN BY SOME BUSINESSES AS THE KEY TO SUCCESS. AFTER ALL, JUST LOOK AT UBER, AIRBNB, THUISBEZORGD AND BOL. COM; PLATFORMS WHICH HAVE TURNED THE MARKET UPSIDE DOWN. DO WE HAVE TO, AND ARE WE ABLE TO, ACCOMPANY THIS TREND, OR IS THAT BEING JUST A BIT TOO AMBITIOUS?
F
uturologist Maurits Kreijveld is an
the range of goods or services offered.
and respond accordingly. If you want to sell
independent expert in the platform
Any extensions again operate on the same
something as a provider, you will eventually
economy. What’s his perspective?
base; the platform. A platform changes
have to deal with these platforms and their
something fundamental in the relationship
requirements.’
TO KICK OFF; WHAT EXACTLY DO WE MEAN BY PLATFORMS?
between those doing business on it. Instead
‘When we talk about platforms we
arises between buyers, sellers, and the
mean multiple products and services, or
platform. This triangular relationship
multiple customers and suppliers, that
requires new strategies.’
of a linear pipeline, a triangular relationship
find a match on a common base; the platform. A platform could therefore be an infrastructure or website. These are often versatile marketplaces. Platforms support customers and suppliers. They can often be scaled up considerably, because they need few new investments to expand
THE POWER OF THE PLATFORM ECONOMY LIES IN RESPONDING BETTER TO CUSTOMER DEMAND. 42
DO YOU EXPECT THAT SUCCESSFUL PLATFORMS SUCH AS AMAZON AND BOL.COM WILL EVENTUALLY ALSO BECOME MAJOR PLAYERS IN THE SALE OF HORTICULTURAL PRODUCTS?
CAN THE HORTICULTURAL SECTOR INDEPENDENTLY DEVELOP ITS OWN PLATFORMS THAT ARE ATTRACTIVE AND INTELLIGENT ENOUGH TO REACH AND SERVE EUROPEAN CONSUMERS? ‘It is extremely difficult to compete with Amazon and the other major platforms who are already so good at understanding and attracting customers. Compare it to social media; are you really able to do
‘That would be relatively easy for them to
much better than Facebook or TikTok?
do, certainly in cooperation with partners
It’s a daunting, almost impossible task,
who could take care of aspects such as
partly because of the “winner takes all”
warehousing and logistics. It looks like
effect; whoever attracts the most customers
Amazon wants to offer every kind of
also gets the best customer insights
product, including fresh products. At the
and market reach. I therefore see more
end of the day, the question is whether the
opportunities in specialist B2B platforms,
large platforms will continue to succeed
and partnerships with the large, well-known
in adding new product categories. On the
players. For example, e-stores can already
other hand, these companies are very
sell products via Amazon, DISH and Bol,
good at understanding customer demand.
where they decide for themselves which
In my opinion, this is where the power of
things go through the platforms (such as
a platform lies; they gain insight into the
sales and payment), and what they do continue on page 45 personally (production
demand and needs of specific customers,
TECH50
Platforms
Platforms both inside and outside the horticultural sector are playing an increasingly important role in matching supply and demand in areas such as products, services, knowledge, and data. In the TECH50, we focus on B2B applications that can be broadly used in an international context. In the international arena, horticulture is becoming increasingly linked to technological developments and market reach.
****
30MHZ Amsterdam 30Mhz created an open platform, and explicitly seeks connections with market parties to create maximum connectivity and customer value. Core product Data platform Since 2014 Stage Scale-up Turnover € 580,000 Employees 27 Ownership Founders, Rabobank, SHIFT Invest
****
LETSGROW.COM Vlaardingen LetsGrow has evolved from a data-monitoring platform into a data-driven system for growing and harvest forecasting using smart sensors and apps.
***
JEM-ID Honselersdijk The transformation of JEM-id from IT partner to B2B platform developer is reflected in its importance to Floriday and Green Commerce, among others.
Core product Data platform Since 2000 Stage SME Turnover Private Employees 30 Ownership Hoogendoorn
Core product Trading platform Since 1996 Stage SME Turnover € 6,033,000 Employees 45 Ownership Management
***
ROYAL BRINKMAN ‘s-Gravenzande Royal Brinkman operates a robust integrated pest management (IPM) platform. This is complemented by a solid shareholding in Agrobío, a powerful E-commerce function and the Plantalyzer. Core product Products and application platform Since 1885 Stage Large enterprise Turnover € 214,000,000 Employees 455 Ownership Family enterprise
***
MPRISE AGRIWARE Veenendaal After initially focussing on registration and transaction data, Agriware is now increasingly active in the fields of data collection, mobile apps, and business platform integration. Core product Data platform Since 2006 Stage SME Turnover € 8,353,000 Employees 91 Ownership Management
WHAT ELSE IS HAPPENING IN THE WORLD IN THE FIELD OF PLATFORMS BE
IL
AT
SG
IL
CARE4GROWING
CLARIFRUIT
DIMUTO
MYCROPS
Core product Dataplatform to enable digital ecosystem Since 2020 Stage Start-up Employees 3
Core product Platform for end-to-end quality control Since 2018 Stage Start-up Employees 10
CONCEPT DATA SYSTEMS
Core product Agrifood trade solutions based on blockchain Since 2019 Stage Start-up Employees 7
Core product Digital agronomist platform Since 2016 Stage Start-up Employees 6
Core product Data platform for breeding and propagation Since 1992 Stage SME Employees 30
43
Blueprint for efficiency
Quality makes the difference
Innovative and sustainable breeding requires ongoing technological development Visit www.anthura.com to learn what we do to stay at the forefront of breeding.
44
▲
Dutch engineering
▲
Superb quality
▲
Highspeed handling
▲
Less manual labour
▲
Limited downtime
www.taks.nl
CALCULATING CUMULATIVE LEAF SURFACE
38cm 2 PROGNOSTICATING ROOT STRENGTH
TECH50
Platforms
and logistics). Working
on multiple platforms which can arrange
progressed much further with digitisation,
together can be fruitful, especially if
integrated offerings. If you can play this
data sharing, and new revenue models than
horticultural providers can benefit from
game well, I think you’ll enjoy a healthy
others.
these large consumer platforms’ customer
harvest.’
continued from page 42
insights and access to markets. Incidentally,
Many B2B platforms are now mainly focused on efficiency, and that’s a rather narrow
developing alternative platforms themselves
WHAT ABOUT SPECIFIC PLATFORMS FOR B2B; WHERE ARE THE RISKS AND OPPORTUNITIES?
to free themselves from the “big boys” and
‘In the horticultural sector, it’s undoubtedly
digitisation and the platform economy lies
their steep fees. So it is possible.’
interesting to create B2B platforms for
in responding better to customer demand.
the optimisation of processes, such as
The spearheads of a platform have to be
HOW CAN A PLATFORM HELP INCREASE TURNOVER IN HORTICULTURE?
purchasing, raw materials, stocks, and
interaction with customers and adding
logistics. They can play an important role
value.’
‘A platform that helps reach the customer
However, all the companies involved
and identify their preferences and wishes
have to coordinate well with each other.
provides a lot of added value. Linking
An open platform structure is appropriate
up to such a platform can therefore be
in this case, where these companies can
interesting, or help in detecting shifting
access the data it generates. Moreover, an
wishes and customer preferences in
open platform learns faster than a closed
good time. The lesson we can learn
platform, which gives space to respond
from successful platforms is that the
to changing markets and to exploit
platform economy revolves entirely
new markets. The strategic question for
around “fulfillment”; fulfilling customers’
those participating is then; where do
wishes. The customer wants an integrated
we compete, and where do we want to
solution, not separate products, such as
work together? I’ve noticed that this is a
a package for a full meal, a flower with
thorny issue, because companies have
card and delivery, a plant as part of an
to search out the bigger picture and the
interior. For providers (manufacturers), this
interests involved. There can also be major
could mean that they have to be present
differences between companies. Some have
we’re seeing more and more sectors, such as delivery, taxi and house rental,
outlook in my opinion. You then continue with “business as usual”, but the power of
in improving efficiency and flexibility.
THE PLATFORM ECONOMY REVOLVES ENTIRELY AROUND “FULFILLMENT”.
45
HORTICULTURAL TECH AND BIG MONEY TECH50 OVERVIEW The reports keep flooding in. The agricultural sector, and the consumers will readily pay slightly more for a product from their own country or region. horticultural sector in particular, has never been so hot in the eyes of investors, family offices, private equity, and venture PROMISING TECHNOLOGY capitalists. A vast amount of cash is in circulation due to a range However, this doesn’t explain the real trigger for the big money pouring into the of reasons, including the policies of central banks around the world, low interest rates, and the political ambitions of the world’s sector. Unlike bank financiers, investors look much less at risk and more at the superpowers. This is cash that is in seek of returns, an impact, or a prospects for growth. These expectations safe haven. can arise from breakthrough technologies, internationalisation, and the expansion of
AGRICULTURE AND HORTICULTURE or prone to crop failure is hardly music to
solutions worldwide. Investors are
a stable, attractive area of investment in
the ears of investors, but the long-term
interested in companies with in-house
every respect. It’s extremely important in
perspective shows that agriculture and
scalable technological solutions, preferably
social terms, because keeping the world’s
horticulture aren’t doing badly at all: while
in combination with unique data and a
population fed as we move into the future is
not achieving the highest returns, they
dominant platform, and which can be
a big challenge. Food scarcity and poverty
are nevertheless consistent. If you also
implemented without in-depth horticultural
in rural areas have often been the prelude
consider the negative interest rates on bank
knowledge. The technology doesn’t need to
to regional conflicts, migration, and refugee
deposits, the calculation quickly changes.
be fully developed, but it does have to be
issues. Another concern is that the world
Add to all this the enormous advances
highly promising. And whoever is looking
has to be more careful in how it uses energy,
in technology, and the sector suddenly
for financing obviously needs a solid pitch, a
water, and raw materials, and still needs
becomes an attractive prospect. This is
great team, fantastic appeal, and, even if it’s
to tackle the climate problem. Modern
only logical, because technology and the
just at the beginning of a steep curve, to be
agriculture and horticulture are successfully
improved techniques reduce the risk of crop
able to show exponential results. Following
addressing all these issues. Nevertheless,
failure or poor quality. Another unexpected
the great influencers in this economic
experience has taught us that agriculture
advantage is that the COVID-19 pandemic
model of promised growth, the Dutch
and horticulture are not immediately known
has made local production increasingly
horticultural sector can also learn a lot from
for providing high returns on investment.
attractive and financially more rewarding;
Elon Musk, Equilibrium, AppHarvest, and
Being at the mercy of the supermarkets
46
market reach by rolling out technological
The agriculture and horticulture sector is
the German company Infarm.
COUNTRY DOMAIN
COMPANY NAME
SINCE LEAD INVESTOR
CO- COUNTRY CHARACTER INVESTOR
NL
Greenhouse technology
KUBO Group
1945
NPM Capital
NL
minority
undisclosed 2021
NL
Smart proces control
Priva
1959
Viessmann
DE
minority
undisclosed 2021
NL
Greenhouse technology
Gakon
1951
Netafim
IL
acquisition
US
Closed Environment Agriculture Equilibrium CEA fund
2008
AP4, European pension funds
WW
funding till date
1,100,000,000 2021
US
Closed Environment Agriculture AppHarvest
2017
Equilibrium, Red Sea Farms,
9
US
funding till date
566,300,000 2021
CA
Vertical Farming
Plenty
2014
Softbank Vision Fund
11
JP
funding till date
541,000,000 2021
US
Vertical Farming
Bowery Farming
2014
Tomasek Holdings, GGV Capital, GV, General Catalyst
32
US
funding till date
488,200,000 2021
DE
Vertical Farming
Infarm
2013
Lightrock, Atomico
20
US
funding till date
475,900,000 2021
US
Vertical Farming
Aerofarms
2004
Abu Dhabi Investment Office (ADIO), INGKA Group
14
WW
funding till date
280,000,000 2021
US
Vertical Farming
80 Acres Farms
2015
General Atlantic, Barclays
9
WW
funding till date
250,000,000 2021
DE
Vertical Farming
&ever
2015
Kalera
1
US
acquisition
152,900,000 2021
US
Genetics & Bio
Voloagri Group
2012
Avrio Capital, Hearthwood Partners
4
US
funding till date
132,000,000 2021
US
Robotics & Smart machinery
Iron Ox
2015
Breakthrough Energy Ventures
19
WW
funding till date
103,200,000 2021
US
Vertical Farming
Crop One
2012
Emirates Flight Catering
>
WW
funding till date
NL
Greenhouse installations
Stolze Group
1969
HAL Investments
NL
majority
undisclosed 2020
NL
Greenhouse technology
Certhon
1896
DENSO
JP
minority
undisclosed 2020
NL
Greenhouse technology
Van der Hoeven
1953
Arvesta
BE
majority
US
Data science Agtech
Benson Hill
2012
GV, Wheatsheaf
24
US
funding till date
282,300,000 2020
US
Closed Environment Agriculture BrightFarms
2011
Cox Enterprises, Catalyst Investors
6
US
funding till date
212,900,000 2020
US
Vertical Farming
Gotham Greens
2009
Silverman Group, Manna Tree
5
US
funding till date
125,100,000 2020
IL
Genetics & Bio
Evogene
2002
ARK Investment Management, Monsanto
4
WW
funding till date
94,500,000 2020
US
Closed Environment Agriculture Revol Greens
2017
Equilibrium Capital
1
US
funding till date
68,000,000 2020
ZA
Robotics & Smart machinery
Aerobotics
2014
Naspers Foundry, Paper Plane Ventures, Nedbank
WW
series B
31,800,000 2020
NL
Vertical Farming
Plantlab
2010
De Hoge Dennen
NL
series A
23,500,000 2020
NL
Robotics & Smart machinery
Viscon
1927
Synergia
NL
minority
undisclosed 2020
NL
Closed Environment Agriculture AgroCare
1997
NPM Capital
NL
minority
undisclosed 2019
NL
Vertical Farming
Codema
1958
Nordian Capital
NL
majority
undisclosed 2018
NL
Greenhouse technology
Boal Group
1970
Equistone
UK
acquisition
undisclosed 2018
IL
Greenhouse technology
Netafim
1965
ORBIA
MX
acquisition
1,895,000,000 2017
NL
Genetics & Bio
Axia Vegetables Seeds 2011
Voloagri Group
US
majority
NL
Genetics & Bio
Dümmen Orange
1967
BC Capital
UK
acquisition
500,000,000 2015
NL
Genetics & Bio
Incotec Group
1968
Croda Investments
UK
acquisition
155,000,000 2015
17 1
AMOUNT ACTUAL IN $ YEAR
undisclosed 2021
47,300,000 2021
undisclosed 2020
undisclosed 2015
Sources: Public, press releases, Crunchbase, Hillenraad
CONSOLIDATION
THE RIGHT INVESTOR IS A RARITY
the limit is never as high as the sky; the wind
Investors do, however, look beyond the
There are some nice examples of investors
can simply change direction. Nevertheless,
technology and the promise of growth,
who take a company to the next phase of
we in the Dutch horticultural sector mustn’t
because you can also create value by
growth with cash, knowledge, skills, and a
set our sights too low if we want to remain
merging companies and creating a group of
fantastic network. However, if expectations
relevant on the world stage, especially
companies that are complementary in terms
are too far out of line with reality, a great
considering our advanced technology.
of technology, scale, market reach, and
danger is always lurking around the corner:
The way forward could be solid alliances
knowledge. The more fragmented a sector
the EBITDA squeezer. and a company
or a robust investor, As long as you select
is, the greater the prospects for creating
starts to lag behind in its growth spurt, all
the right partner carefully. That’s because a
value. Add to that the cheap financing
the right buttons have to be pressed to
shared ambition is enough for every Dutch
available, and it’s time to start building.
get it back on track. A good investor with
horticultural company to rise easily to great
In business jargon, this is called Buy and
knowledge and a long-term approach will
heights. Let’s keep our feet on the ground,
Build. Here, it isn’t just the company’s
be able to muster the patience to do this,
and leave the real space travel to Elon
product that delivers value, but the
but if the investment horizon is too short,
Musk, Richard Branson, and Jeff Bezos.
company itself, as you can link companies
it’s all too easy to press the wrong buttons
together, optimise them, dispose of less
in the horticultural industry. This puts too
On this page is a list of the iconic
profitable parts, double their size or, as the
much pressure on the company and its
investments and acquisitions in horticulture.
ultimate exit strategy, list them on the stock
employees. Before you know it, the good
exchange. This makes the company itself
people quit, the company gets into trouble,
a commodity and attracts a whole circus of
and the company itself becomes the
investors; bootstrappers, informal investors,
plaything.
business angels, accelerators, seed capitalists, venture capitalists, private equity,
THE SKY’S THE LIMIT
and so on. These players have started
At the moment, it looks like the sky’s the
appearing in the horticultural sector, and
limit. Takeovers are happening in rapid
many business operators in the horticultural
succession, and no sooner has one round
sector are receiving frequent visits from
of investment been completed but a new
players of that type.
one begins. The burn rate accelerates, so that the winners-take-all position can be claimed. As the horticultural sector knows,
47
TECH50
VERTICAL FARMING; WHAT ARE THE POTENTIAL BENEFITS? OPTIMAL USE OF SPACE, GUARANTEED PRODUCTION, LESS WATER, FEWER PLANT PROTECTION PRODUCTS, LESS EXPENDITURE ON TRANSPORT; THE LIST OF ADVANTAGES OF VERTICAL FARMING IS IMPRESSIVE. IS THIS REALLY THE EGG OF COLUMBUS, AND ARE WE ABOUT TO SEE SKYSCRAPERS FULL OF TOMATO AND LETTUCE PLANTS IN EVERY CITY THROUGHOUT THE GLOBE? COULD THIS BE THE ANSWER TO THE GLOBAL FOOD ISSUE?
M
artien Penning of Hillenraad
technological role, we have to pay attention
a lot more activity in the Asia and the US.
Partners spoke with Leo Marcelis,
to this.’
Consumer preference also plays a role; in
professor of Horticulture and
Japan and China, the image of a cultivation
Product Physiology at Wageningen University
FOOD-SAFE IMAGE
environment controlled to the maximum,
& Research.
In the Netherlands, much attention has
virtually a laboratory environment, appeals
been paid to optimising greenhouse
to the consumer. In these areas, products
Leo, where do we stand at the moment
cultivation, which is now extremely
from a vertical farm have a food-safe
with vertical farming? ‘We’re really just
advanced, and we also have the perfect
image, while European consumers are the
witnessing the very beginning. This concept
climate for it. That’s what vertical farming
exact opposite. They sometimes have a
is already pretty popular in Japan, but even
has to compete with, so is it realistic to
negative view of what they see as “artificial”
so its profitability is still open to question.’
expect that we’ll apply this method on a
products. Incidentally, I’ve noticed that
Is it still a “lucky shot”, or has enough
large scale in the Netherlands? ‘It’s true that
young people often see this differently, and
progress been made for you to conclude
the benefits of vertical farming are greater
have a more positive attitude to vertical
that there are serious opportunities up for
in other countries, which is why you see
farming.’
grabs? At the moment, vertical farming is responsible for only a tiny percentage of products. ‘Absolutely true, but this area is evolving extremely rapidly. We’ve noticed that the number of cultivation companies is increasing, especially outside the Netherlands. In this country, there are only cultivation companies which are just starting. However, the Netherlands is a major player when it comes to the development and supply of cultivation systems for vertical farming. In this respect, we have to remember that suppliers in other countries aren’t resting on their laurels. If we in the Netherlands want vertical farming to be another area where we play a significant
48
WE HAVE TO REMEMBER THAT SUPPLIERS IN OTHER COUNTRIES AREN’T RESTING ON THEIR LAURELS.
COST IS THE LIMITING FACTOR From a cost perspective, vertical farming is therefore less interesting for growing crops in the Netherlands. But I’m surprised that it isn’t more widely used by plant breeders. They’re involved in intensive, short-cycle cultivation, which involves a great deal of logistics. Why don’t they opt for vertical farming? ‘I ask myself the very same question. It might be because the investment required for a system is so high that you’d want to use it 365 days a year, and spreading work over an entire year is a challenge for plant breeders. continue on page 51 On the other hand,
TECH50
Vertical Farming *****
PLANTLAB ‘s-Hertogenbosch This company produces vegetables and herbs in a former IBM building in Amsterdam under the Plant Paradise label. Its customers include Picnic.
*****
PLANTYFOOD Poeldijk
Core product Daylight-free cultivation for retail Since 2010 Stage Scale-up Turnover € 3,000,000 Employees 48 Ownership Founders, De Hoge Dennen
PlantyFood is putting itself on the map with their own R&D-developed systems for daylight-free cultivation of leafy crops and fruiting vegetables. Core product Supplier of daylight-free cultivation systems Since 2016 Stage Start-up Turnover Private Employees 114 Ownership Certhon
Vertical Farming is an incredibly interesting new activity within horticulture, with more and more companies and investors believing it solves a whole range of issues. For our product range, we view vertical farming mainly as farming indoors without daylight. The ultimate challenge is to find out what we can grow more successfully in a vertical farm without daylight than in a glass greenhouse with grow lights.
****
ARTECHNO GROWSYSTEMS De Lier Fully automatic plant factories with an extreme focus on climate control to the nearest half degree temperature control for ultimate plant happiness. Core product Supplier of daylight-free cultivation systems Since 1988 Stage SME Turnover € 3,722,000 Employees 16 Ownership Private
****
BLUE SKIES GROUP Helmond
***
FUTURE CROPS Poeldijk Launching vertical farming in the heart of the Westland greenhouse horticulture area requires nerves of steel and extreme practicality. Core product Daylight-free herb cultivation Since 2016 Stage Scale-up Turnover Private Employees 13 Ownership Private
An under-the-radar project, but looking at the location and the recruitment of people, it is clear that something unique is about to happen in vertical farming in the Netherlands Core product Daylight-free cultivation for retail Since 2015 Stage Start-up Turnover Private Employees 3 Ownership Seven steps to heaven
WHAT ELSE IS HAPPENING IN THE WORLD IN THE FIELD OF VERTICAL FARMING US
US
DE
GB
CA
80 ACRES FARMS
BOWERY FARMING
INFARM
PLENTY
Core product Vertical farms system operator Since 2015 Stage Start-up Employees 75
Core product Vertical farms system operator Since 2014 Stage Scale-up Employees 202
Core product Vertical farms system supplier & operator Since 2013 Stage SME Employees 493
INTELLIGENT GROWTH SOLUTIONS Core product Vertical farms system supplier Since 2013 Stage Scale-up Employees 55
Core product Vertical farms system operator Since 2014 Stage Scale-up Employees 325
49
Automated Vertical Farming
“
“
Providing a plantfocused approach
VISIT WWW.ARTECHNO.NL
50
Vertical Farming
continued from page 48
raising production by
a few percent with these crops makes all
TECH50
aspect. Do we as a society think that’s it
likely to gain ground in the short term?
responsible to use so much more energy?’
‘In areas where the climate is unsuitable
the difference, so I’m sure vertical farming
for greenhouse horticulture or land is
can be attractive.’ The limiting factor is
MEDICINES AND COSMETICS
expensive, vertical farming offers serious
therefore probably still the cost price; both
‘Although I expect the cost of vertical
opportunities. Basically, in urban areas,
the initial investment and the operational
farming to go down over the next few
close to the consumer. It offers lots of
costs. A vertical greenhouse can cost 10
years, it’s going to remain relatively
benefits, because it means fewer air miles
times as much as an ordinary greenhouse’
expensive. Given this, what’s important
for products. Countries such as Singapore
‘True. In addition, the higher energy
is that a grower can create added value
and the United Arab Emirates, which are
consumption is not just a problem in terms
by, for example, supplying better quality,
highly dependent on food imports, are
of costs, it also affects the sustainability
offering certainty of delivery, and using this
also showing a lot of interest. An important
cultivation method as a marketing tool.
factor is always the power supply, as cheap
Moreover, vertical farming gives maximum
energy is a precondition for profitability.
control over the cultivation, so you can
Where exactly this technology will take off
also control components such as vitamin C
is anybody’s guess. However, one thing
and antioxidants.’ I can also see potential
I’m certain about is that vertical farming is
in the cultivation of cosmetic or medicinal
here to stay. It’s just a question how quickly
substances, such as medical cannabis.
we can reduce the costs by half with new
These are relatively expensive products
techniques and technologies.’
WHAT’S IMPORTANT IS THAT A GROWER CAN CREATE ADDED VALUE BY SUPPLYING BETTER QUALITY AND OFFERING CERTAINTY OF DELIVERY.
that have to meet strict requirements in terms of consistent quality. ‘I do indeed see opportunities in this area, but it’s certainly not happening on a large scale yet.’
ANYONE’S GUESS In summary, we can conclude that vertical farming will win its place in Dutch production horticulture, but won’t become commonplace any time soon. If we look from a global perspective, where is it
51
TECH50
NEW GENETIC TOOLS: A WEALTH OF OPPORTUNITIES, BUT A COMPLICATED ISSUE ‘NEW GENETIC TOOLS, SUCH AS CRISPR-CAS, CERTAINLY OFFER SOME VERY INTERESTING POSSIBILITIES. EVEN SO, WE’RE STILL A LONG WAY FROM DESIGNER PLANTS IN WHICH WE CAN DECIDE ALL THE PROPERTIES OURSELVES. FOR THE TIME BEING, TRADITIONAL BREEDING WILL REMAIN AT THE HEART OF THE BREEDING PROCESS,’ SAYS SJOUKJE HEIMOVAARA.
S
joukje is general director of the
being carried out in this area, and we’ve
of viruses. if you know how to keep them
Agrotechnology & Food Sciences
seen that good results are possible with
away, you can get rid of a lot of viruses.
Group of Wageningen University &
CRISPR-Cas or another gene editing
There’s no simple way gene editing can
Research, and a member of the Adviesraad
technique. There are also some very
help here. We have to realise that these
voor wetenschap, technologie en innovatie
interesting developments taking place
kinds of tools won’t substitute traditional
(Dutch Advisory Council for Science,
around sensitivity genes. Editing these
breeding. Some characteristics, such as the
Technology and Innovation). She studied
genes isn’t about turning the resistance
compactness of a plant, are easy to modify
plant breeding and obtained her PhD in cell
‘on’, but rather the sensitivity ‘off’. There are
with ‘normal’ breeding. In these cases, using
biology. She describes gene editing as a
already several good examples of this.’
expensive techniques such as CRISPR-Cas
fascinating development.
THERE’S A LOT OF INTEREST IN CRISPR-CAS TECHNOLOGY, BUT WHAT IS ITS POTENTIAL IN THE HORTICULTURAL SECTOR?
would be wasteful.’
CAN GENE EDITING ALSO HELP FIGHT VIRUSES?
‘CRISPR-Cas allows us to change a highly
a complicated issue, not least because
GENETIC MODIFICATION IS A LOADED TERM FOR SOME PEOPLE. WHAT KIND OF POLITICAL AND SOCIAL DISCUSSIONS CAN WE EXPECT?
specific part of a plant’s DNA. It is possible
viruses mutate so incredibly quickly. Insects
‘The potential benefits offered by genetic
to modify one or a few genes and thus
often play a major role in the transmission
modification are increasing all the time, but
‘Viruses are a major problem, and it would be amazing if we could find a solution. Genetic modification can help, but it’s
European regulations are often a spanner
change the plant habit. However, it only works with a very limited number of plant habits, because many important habits, for example higher yield, are determined by multiple genes. To develop what we call a ‘designer plant’, we need to know the exact effect of all those genes. We’re still a long way off. In terms of resistance, we know we can achieve a lot just by changing one or two genes. Considerable research is already
52
WE’RE WORKING MORE AND MORE WÍTH NATURE INSTEAD OF AGAÍNST IT.
in the works. Gene editing, such as CRISPRCas, is covered by GMO (genetically modified organisms) regulations in Europe. This is currently under review, so there could be opportunities here. The technology may only be used for research at the moment, and companies can’t make a business case with it yet, in contrast to places such as the US and Japan, where it is allowed. It’s really time there was a coherent policy across the continue on page 55 world.
TECH50
Genetics & Biology *****
ENZA ZADEN Enkhuizen Technology is literally in Enza’s genes. Inhouse state-of-the-art technologies are used to continuously push boundaries. Core product Breeding of vegetable seeds Since 1938 Stage Large enterprise Turnover € 341,000,000 Employees 2,154 Ownership Family enterprise
*****
RIJK ZWAAN De Lier Rijk Zwaan is a technology company that never misses an opportunity to bring the latest technological tools and top talent on board. Core product Breeding of vegetable seeds Since 1924 Stage Large enterprise Turnover € 477,000,000 Employees 3,500 Ownership Family enterprise
Professional breeding of all kinds of horticultural crops has given Dutch breeding companies a leading global position. However, more is happening in the field of biology than plant breeding; aspects such as improving crops, building in resistance, developing biological control with natural enemies, and improving plant health with microbiotica are playing an increasingly important role. Thanks to technology, major breakthroughs are also being made in this area.
*****
KOPPERT BIOLOGICAL SYSTEMS Berkel en Rodenrijs The inventor of biological crop protection has developed a new technology to increase plant resilience by means of microbiologicals.
*****
Core product Biological plant health Since 1967 Stage Large enterprise Turnover € 260,400,000 Employees 1,575 Ownership Family enterprise
KEYGENE Wageningen The source of new technologies and scientific applications in genetics and biologicals; that is AgBiotech in every respect. Core product Breeding technology Since 1989 Stage SME Turnover € 19,000,000 Employees 135 Ownership Enza Zaden, Rijk Zwaan, Limagrain, Takii
****
DÜMMEN ORANGE De Lier A global player that invests heavily in R&D by means of the new Breeding Technology Centre, where 200 people are working on genetics and genomics. Core product Floriculture breeding Since 1967 Stage Large enterprise Turnover € 349,000,000 Employees 6,082 Ownership BC Capital
WHAT ELSE IS HAPPENING IN THE WORLD IN THE FIELD OF GENETICS & BIOLOGY DE
DE
BE
IL
CH
BASF / NUNHEMS
BAYER CROPSCIENCE
BIOBEST GROUP
EVOGENE
SYNGENTA SEEDS
Core product Vegetable breeding Since 1865 Stage Corporate Employees 117,628
Core product Vegetable breeding Since 1863 Stage Corporate Employees 103,824
Core product Biological crop protection Since 1987 Stage Large enterprise Employees 1,700
Core product Data-driven biotechnology Since 2002 Stage SME Employees 128
Core product Vegetable and floriculture breeding Since 2000 Stage Corporate Employees 49,000
53
Technology helps breeding move forward
Plant breeding has been around for centuries, but a lot has changed in the past ten years. As breeders and laboratories are collaborating increasingly more, the possibilities are endless and the breeding process might become three to four generations shorter than before.
Anticipating developments Successful entrepreneurship also means anticipating future developments. Rapid growth of the world’s population in combination with a decreasing acreage of good agricultural land and the changing climate will put tremendous pressure on the food availability and safety.
Future-proof varieties That is why our breeders focus heavily on crop productivity and disease resistance next to taste and nutrients. Focus on strong, reliable varieties that need less crop protection products, water or fertilizers during cultivation. Focus on long shelf life
enzazaden.com 54
to avoid unnecessary food waste, and on developing organic vegetable varieties. Focus on more efficient, sustainable and reliable cultivation and processing methods. And on extreme climates and other conditions, such as heat, drought or saline soil.
The result By doing so, we jointly ensure that we are giving people access to healthy, varied food. Wherever they are in the world. And in the most sustainable way possible.
Genetics & Biology
Incidentally, I do
TECH50
to their genetic material, are increasingly
tomatoes next to a row of sweet peppers.
understand the discussions around genetic
able to predict what’s going on in their
Another development in agriculture that
modification technology, and it’s good
business. This is very common in animal
could also offer potential in horticulture is
that there are rules in place. But I’ve also
breeding, especially cattle, where farmers
the cultivation of dual-purpose varieties.
noticed some “new Frankenstein” fears
can use data on measurements such as the
Maybe one day we’ll develop a variety
here and there that aren’t always justified.
protein content of milk to predict which
of tomato with leaves which we can also
Some people are against this kind of
cross will yield the best results. You can do
use? These kinds of innovations need
targeted, controlled mutations, but don’t
the same with plants. In this case, breeding
growers with a good dose of courage, and
object to another method that has been
is based purely on statistics, without any
fortunately we have plenty of them in the
used for years; radioactive radiation.
knowledge about specific genes. All you
Netherlands. I’m really impressed by the
That isn’t natural either, and is like shooting
need is enough reliable data, then you
Dutch agricultural and horticultural sector.
randomly in the dark. Even though there’s
can accurately predict patterns and use
We’ve got lots of businesspeople who don’t
much less control over this process, this
algorithms. This is an interesting option,
shirk from risks, and in the event of a setback
technology is permitted. It would be good
especially for companies that consistently
dust themselves off and start all over again.
if everyone realised that mutations occur
and systematically collect as much data as
That’s something we should be proud of!’
naturally; it’s the very basis of evolution.
possible.’
continued from page 52
What the new technology really means should be explained, and its benefits shown.
ANY OTHER TRENDS?
For example, better resistance would allow
‘Something I find very positive is that we’re
us to get rid of chemical plant protection
working more and more with nature instead
products more quickly. That’s surely a huge
of against it. Examples include biological
plus? I’m really hoping for a fair discussion.’
control by parasitic wasps or nematodes, pollination with bumblebees and bees,
DO YOU FORESEE ANY OTHER ADVANCES IN THE FIELD OF BREEDING?
or using biostimulants. The interest in
I’ve noticed the increasing importance of
I’m interested in how we can make this
collecting and exploiting data. Breeding
profitable, and whether it also offers
companies that record all plant data
opportunities for greenhouse cultivation.
accurately and systematically, then link it
It would certainly be a pretty sight; a row of
regenerative agriculture is growing, with techniques such as strip cultivation.
55
TECH50
THREE CHALLENGES ON THE ROUTE TO SMART LOGISTICS: DIGITISATION, DECARBONI SATION, AND DISRUPTION WITHOUT GOOD LOGISTICS, THE HORTICULTURAL SECTOR WOULD RAPIDLY GRIND TO A HALT. THE PRODUCTS WE GROW IN THE NETHERLANDS HAVE TO FIND THEIR WAY TO CONSUMERS, AND THE PRODUCTS WE IMPORT HAVE TO BE TRANSPORTED FROM THEIR COUNTRY OF ORIGIN.
N
ico Anten (left) and Leon Simons (right) from Connekt, an independent network for
LET’S START WITH THE D OF DIGITISATION; WHAT CAN WE EXPECT IN THIS AREA?
market. We would be better off spending our efforts on clear access agreements; who can collect what information?’
smart mobility and sustainable logistics,
Leon: ‘Data is king’, they often say. However,
foresee three major challenges in logistics:
data in itself isn’t information, and we have
digitisation, decarbonisation, and
to deal with so many different systems.
disruption. ‘These three Ds will require a lot
I think that whoever is able to make data
ARE WE JUST TALKING ABOUT DATA FROM LOGISTICS COMPANIES, OR GROWERS TOO?
of attention in the coming years.’
easily accessible in the right way will be the
Leon: ‘If we could also gain access
winner. In the current situation, companies
to growers’ data, it would be a real
‘These three Ds will require a lot of
are still highly dependent on the data
game changer. The sooner you can link
attention in the coming years.’
they receive. Then it’s a matter of hoping
information, the better it is for the entire
and trusting that you get the information
chain. In this respect, it’s essential that all
needed at any given moment, and that this
those involved trust each other. And that’s
data is correct and complete. Wouldn’t it
going to take a while.’
therefore be better if you could retrieve
YOU’LL ALSO NOTICE A MUCH SMOOTHER TRANSITION BETWEEN INTERNAL AND EXTERNAL LOGISTICS. 56
this data upstream and downstream in the
Nico: ‘If you want to organise the chain
chain yourself? I think selective accessibility
in a way that promotes sustainability,
has better prospects than the complete
transparency is essential. It’s useful for the
standardisation of data; the latter is virtually
transporter to know how many tomatoes will
impossible.’
have to be transported in the coming week, for example. Sharing commercial data is
Nico: ‘The question is how we can get
obviously a sensitive area, but if you know
everyone on board with digitisation. The big
and trust each other it becomes less of a
logistics players will be fine, but will smaller
sticking point. That’s why the chain really
companies be able to keep up? Another
has to work on a reliable and trusted digital
challenge is how we can prevent large data
solution.’
platforms from becoming monopolies. It’s important that we share data and make
Leon: ‘I think logistics should take on a
it accessible, but we want to avoid a central
more leading role. At the moment, the continue on page 59 sector tends to do
database and companies monopolising the
TECH50
Smart logistics ****
Logistics plays an important role in technological developments in and around the horticultural sector. Internal and external logistics are also becoming more and more entwined. In this domain, we mainly selected internal logistics companies; in the interview, we look more at external developments. Logical, since these will have an impact on the entire supply chain.
LOGIQS Maasdijk From smart logistics and vertical storage to vertical farming, and with solid roots in horticulture; everything that is needed to go beyond ‘the sky is the limit’ Core product Smart logistics in the broadest sense Since 1975 Stage SME Turnover € 12,300,000 Employees 51 Ownership Private
****
CREA-TECH Aalsmeer Thanks to its engineering expertise and craftsmanship, Crea-Tech is building a solid position in mechanisation and automation in horticulture. Core product Automation of internal logistics Since 1998 Stage SME Turnover Private Employees 15 Ownership Bosman Van Zaal
****
TAKS HANDLING SYSTEMS Etten-Leur Thanks to an active buy-and-build strategy, Taks has managed to position itself as a strong player in smart logistics with a solid foundation for technological innovation. Core product Automation of internal logistics Since 1988 Stage SME Turnover € 26,300,000 Employees 128 Ownership Victus Participations
***
FLIER SYSTEMS Barendrecht
***
CODEMA SYSTEMS GROUP Bergschenhoek
Focus on smart logistics integrating vision, data, software and mechanisation turned into turnkey solutions.
With the cultivation system as a basis, Codema offers a wide range of robust, in-house solutions, from wheels to water and web applications.
Core product Mechanisation and automation of business processes Since 1931 Stage SME Turnover € 15,800,000 Employees 75 Ownership Family enterprise
Core product Automated cultivation systems Since 1958 Stage Large enterprise Turnover € 53,000,000 Employees 134 Ownership Nordian Capital
WHAT ELSE IS HAPPENING IN THE WORLD IN THE FIELD OF SMART LOGISTICS BE
DK
FI
BE
US
BOGAERTS GREENHOUSE LOGISTICS
ELLEPOT
GREEN AUTOMATION
GREEN PRODUCTION SYSTEMS
HOVE INTERNATIONAL
Core product Automated logistic cultivation systems Since 2002 Stage SME Employees 18
Core product Automated logistic cultivation systems Since 1998 Stage SME Employees 16
Core product Automated greenhouse logistics Since 1989 Stage SME Employees 6
Core product Greenhouse logistics Since 1998 Stage SME Employees 54
Core product Systems for plant breeders Since 1989 Stage SME Employees 39
57
Partners with Nature Koppert Biological Systems contributes to better health of people and the planet. In partnership with nature, we make agriculture healthier, safer and more productive. We provide an integrated system of specialist knowledge and natural, safe solutions that improves crop health, resilience and production.
info@koppert.com
www.koppert.com
Growing for the future! The world around us is changing rapidly. Certainly, when it comes to the exponential growth of technological developments. The Group comprises Beekenkamp Verpakkingen, Beekenkamp Plants and Deliflor Chrysanthemums. A family owned business who is your professional partner for customers and suppliers in the field of vegetable, pot and bedding plants, packaging and cut flower Chrysanths. Together we work worldwide on the high quality of our products. Central to this are the wishes of the customer and market knowledge. Beekenkamp Group is committed to working together worldwide to achieve high quality and efficiency of our products while contributing to a better and more sustainable world. The wishes of our customer in combination with market knowledge are key.
Smart logistics
continued from page 56
what the customer
wants. Delivery tomorrow? OK, we’ll do it.
TECH50
that they don’t think is sustainable or
delivered. We applauded the healthcare
sustainable enough.’
sector. And rightly so, but I think the entire
If logistics providers have information about
logistics chain deserves more recognition.
the what, where, and when of expectations,
Leon: ‘Another issue in this context is
This sector has to soldier on, even in times
they can organise the process much smarter
whether we should be focussing much more
of disruption. It’s important that individual
and more sustainably. You’ll also notice a
on producing locally. And why do we have
companies, the sector as a whole, and
much smoother transition between internal
to transport flowers from Kenya destined
government authorities take this to heart,
and external logistics.’
for the American market to the Netherlands
and plan ahead where possible.’
first? There are calls to expand the ETS
THE SECOND D STANDS FOR DECARBONISATION. WHAT’S HAPPENING IN THIS AREA?
emissions trading system to include road transport. That would be a strong financial incentive to use transport more smartly.’
Nico: ‘More and more operators in the
parallel with data; if you want to account
THE LAST D STANDS FOR DISRUPTION. CAN THE SECTOR PREPARE FOR THIS AT ALL?
for yourself, you need to know what’s going
Nico: ‘Disruption could be anything; a
on. To get an accurate picture, this requires
ship blocking the Suez Canal, a pandemic
both information about your own emissions,
outbreak, climate change… It’s difficult or
and data from the rest of the chain. There
even impossible to prepare for these kinds
are some smart solutions available for
of scenarios. Nevertheless, it’s always good
this, such as BigMile, and we’ve noticed
for the sector as a whole to think about
lots of companies already taking this step.
what could happen, and increase resilience.
It won’t be long before companies will
We should be aware that the logistics sector
need emission annual accounts, in addition
and the producers behind it are a critical
to their financial annual accounts. Young
part of society. During the COVID-19 crisis,
people in particular find these kind of
everything was stretched to the limit, yet,
things important. They think carefully about
apart from a few days when people went
whether they want to work for a company
mad with hoarding, shelves were always
logistics sector want to be accountable for their CO2 emissions. There’s a direct
full, hospitals kept supplied, and packages
59
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