Hugh Lowe Farms, a prominent soft fruit grower in the UK, is gaining recognition in the agricultural sector for its pioneering approach to commercial robotic harvesting. In collaboration with Dogtooth Technologies, the farm is revolutionizing the harvesting of strawberries, raspberries, and blackberries in Kent, England.
Marion Regan, the Managing Director at Hugh Lowe Farms, asserts that the integration of robotic harvesting technology has been a transformative solution to address the enduring challenges of labour availability and cost. With an annual production of approximately 5,000 tonnes of strawberries and 1,000 tonnes of raspberries and blackberries, the farm recognizes the imperative need for efficient and cost-effective harvesting methods.
The development of the Dogtooth robots over the past eight years has proven to be paramount in overcoming the challenges encountered by traditional human pickers. These robots are adept at working extended hours, including during the night, to ensure that the fruit is harvested at the optimal time to maintain quality and freshness. Their precision in picking and sorting fruit into appropriate containers has significantly contributed to the farm’s operations.
Although the use of robotic technology does not replace the expertise and dexterity of human pickers, it substantially diminishes the dependence on manual labour. The speed and efficiency of the robots have rendered them a cost-effective alternative to conventional harvesting methods, enabling the farm to allocate human labour to other vital tasks.
While the investment in robotic technology may appear to be a substantial financial commitment for growers, Dogtooth offers a flexible solution by providing robotic harvesting as a service, with a per kilo charge comparable to manual harvesting costs. Furthermore, the long-term business model aims to empower growers to oversee their harvest by acquiring the robots and subscribing to software updates, thereby constituting a cost-effective and sustainable investment in the long run.
An admirable feature of Dogtooth robots is their adaptability to existing crop varieties. Unlike traditional mechanical harvesting methods, which necessitate specific varieties, these robots can operate with a wide range of fruit varieties, as long as they exhibit a good crop display. This flexibility further heightens their appeal to fruit growers throughout the UK.
The successful commercial trials of Dogtooth robots at Hugh Lowe Farms and Burlington Berries in Tasmania have laid the foundation for the widespread adoption of this technology in the agricultural sector. Marion Regan emphasizes the importance of embracing innovation and sustainable practices to surmount the challenges posed by escalating labour costs and shortages.
The integration of sustainable battery technologies and on-farm generated solar power underscores Hugh Lowe Farms’ dedication to environmentally friendly and efficient farming practices. Marion Regan’s forward-thinking approach signifies a new era for the agricultural industry, where technology and tradition converge to forge a more sustainable and productive future.
For further information about Hugh Lowe Farms and their pioneering use of robotic harvesting technology, please contact Marion Regan at +44(0)1622 812229 or via email at [email protected] Alternatively, you can visit their website at www.hughlowefarms.com to gain insights into their innovative practices and high-quality produce.