Limburg, the Netherlands-based FineField, a company specialising in manufacturing blueberry harvesting tools, machines, and equipment, recently announced the addition of Fall Creek Inc. as a new strategic investor.
Currently, Fall Creek’s role in FineField is that of a minority investor, offering support and expertise while not directly involved in the Dutch company’s daily operations or decision-making.
Through this strategic partnership, the Dutch company aims to take a significant step towards building a global presence and continually innovating in the blueberry market.
“Fall Creek is excited to support FineField’s groundbreaking technology in mechanical harvesting, which we believe has the potential to transform the blueberry industry,” states Oscar Verges, Co-CEO of Fall Creek.
Birth of FineField
In 2012, the Driessen brothers — Marcel and Leon Driessen discovered a need to improve their blueberry harvesting process.
They needed to streamline the berry collection process by simplifying the collection and transportation methods, as well as finding a more efficient way to remove the berries from the bush.
As a result, the duo collaborated with the local machine construction engineer Mike Janssen and thus born FineField.
FineField: Delivers modern technology to the agricultural sector
Focusing specifically on blueberries, FineField‘s vision is that the three phases of harvesting need to be improved.
A standard structure allowing the use of flexible methods to detach the fruit is required.
The fruit must be picked gently, without damage or loss due to falling on the ground. Automated transportation methods should be utilised as much as possible to improve efficiency.
The company’s robotic harvesters, Harvy 200, 200S, and 500, not only represent technological advancement but also a commitment to sustainable and efficient farming practices.
It reduces fruit bruising, improves packets, and is environmentally friendly, being solar-powered.
The company aims to support growers through innovative solutions that will enhance efficiency and productivity in blueberry farming.
The investor
Based out of the US, Fall Creek focuses on blueberry genetics, plants, and grower support delivered to the world’s premier blueberry growers.
The company now has nursery and R&D operations in the US, Mexico, Peru, Spain, The Netherlands, South Africa, and now Chile.
“Our investment in FineField aligns with Fall Creek’s mission to build a world with better blueberries, focusing on quality for consumers. We see FineField’s technology as a significant step in this mission,” emphasised Verges.
Read the orginal article: https://siliconcanals.com/news/startups/finefield-announces-fall-creek-investor/
