CNH Industrial Invests In Robotic Fruit Harvesting Platform

Its first harvester was for strawberries, and last year it launched the apple harvester for use in Washington.
Its first harvester was for strawberries, and last year it launched the apple harvester for use in Washington.
(Advanced Farm Technologies)

California-based start-up Advanced Farm Technologies has received a minority investment from CNH Industrial. Advanced Farm Technologies designs and builds robotic harvesters for apples, strawberries and other fruits. 

Its first harvester was for strawberries, and last year it launched the apple harvester for use in Washington. The two platforms use a lot of the same technology–computer vision and machine learning tech stack. The apple picker features multiple robotic arms on each harvester and suction cup grippers.

In CNH’s announcement, the company says robotic harvesting of high value crops increases efficiency up to five times. Currently, 70% of U.S-grown strawberries are hand harvested, and 46% of apples are handpicked. 

CNH leaders say the company is in “a technology growth mode, committed to customer-inspired innovation. This latest investment is part of our broader strategy to bring cutting-edge solutions to our portfolio. We are especially focused on automated, autonomous, and sustainable farming innovations that solve important and complex challenges for our customers.”

Strawberry Robotcs
 

 

Latest News

Dole, Fresh Express nix sale of fresh vegetables division
Dole, Fresh Express nix sale of fresh vegetables division

Following Department of Justice concerns about competition in the packaged salad market, the companies have abandoned the proposed $308 million deal.

Fresh Del Monte named to most trusted companies list
Fresh Del Monte named to most trusted companies list

Fresh Del Monte is among the honorees on the Most Trustworthy Companies in America 2024 list, recognized for a commitment to quality, sustainability and innovation in fresh produce.

Improved conditions for West Mexico produce may arrive with spring
Improved conditions for West Mexico produce may arrive with spring

West Mexico growers faced a tough fall/winter season, but distributors believe things are looking up for spring with increased supplies and more reasonable prices.

What’s next for retail foodservice: Retailers dish up insights in free webinar
What’s next for retail foodservice: Retailers dish up insights in free webinar

"Impact Retail Foodservice 2024" will gather industry experts to discuss opportunities and challenges, as well as share insights for driving growth in the year ahead in one of the hottest departments in grocery.

Natural Delights names new CEO
Natural Delights names new CEO

With CEO Tim Rooney is stepping down to pursue another opportunity, Natural Delights is promoting its chief operating officer, effective April 1.

Taylor Farms Retail gives new options for its mini-chopped line
Taylor Farms Retail gives new options for its mini-chopped line

Taylor Farms Retail is adjusting its packaged salad options to better serve single consumers, company executives said at the  Associated Wholesale Grocers' seventh annual Innovation Showcase.