The Growing Demand for Efficient Technology in Greenhouse Operations
In Greenhouse Grower’s 2023 Top 100 Growers survey, the majority of respondents identified improving efficiency and the cost of labor as the primary factors driving their investment in new technology. Nearly 80% of growers cited the need for increased efficiency as their motivation, while 76% acknowledged the impact of labor costs on their operations. Furthermore, a staggering 90% of respondents expressed their plans to invest in new structures, retrofits, or expansions in the coming year. This data highlights the growing trend among growers to embrace technology as a means to enhance productivity and profitability in the highly competitive greenhouse industry.
Garden State Growers’ Approach to Technology Adoption
At Garden State Growers in New Jersey, the focus is on both expansion and improving efficiencies simultaneously. Jan Nielson, the Director of Operations, emphasizes that their ultimate goal is streamlined production. The team at Garden State Growers takes a cautious approach to technology adoption, choosing to observe the technology in action or ensuring it comes from a reliable supplier with a proven track record. While they may not be the first to adopt something new, they closely follow advancements from Europe that have yet to establish themselves in the U.S. It is crucial for them to find the right fit for their specific growing operations, rather than simply adopting what works for others.
Finding the Right Fit: Technology Adaptation in the U.S. Greenhouse Industry
Garden State Growers recognizes that what works in Europe may not always be the best solution for the U.S. There are differences in growing operations that must be considered. While it may be tempting to recreate the business to adopt a new technology, Garden State Growers focuses on finding technology that fits their existing operations and can help them achieve their own goals. They prioritize efficiency and consistency in plant quality as key factors in their decision-making process.
Wenke Greenhouses: Embracing Computer Tools for Enhanced Workflow
Wenke Greenhouses in Michigan takes a slightly different approach to technology investments. While they may not be early adopters for equipment and facilities that require significant time investment, they are quick to embrace computer tools that simplify work and make it easier to do business. Their sales manager emphasizes that if a tool can save time and allow for more enjoyable tasks, they are willing to invest the effort to integrate it into their workflow. Wenke Greenhouses recently completed a two-year expansion project, incorporating new technology for their plug production range, booms, fertilizer injection system, lighting, and propagation humidification. By strategically adopting technology that enhances their workflow, Wenke Greenhouses aims to optimize their operations and improve overall efficiency.
Overcoming Facility Limitations: How Wenke Greenhouses Optimizes Technology
Wenke Greenhouses faced challenges due to facility limitations that prevented them from fully benefiting from certain technologies. However, they adopted a proactive approach and committed to making the system work, rather than settling for suboptimal conditions. In their recent expansion, they were able to implement a humidification system in the propagation area, leveraging the full potential of this tool. While not a new technology, the facility limitations previously held them back from reaping the benefits. Wenke Greenhouses demonstrates the importance of overcoming obstacles and unlocking the potential of existing technology to streamline operations and improve efficiency.
Technology adoption in the greenhouse industry is driven by the need to boost efficiency, reduce labor costs, and improve overall productivity. While different growers have varying approaches to technology adoption, finding the right fit for their specific operations is crucial. By carefully evaluating available technologies and their potential impact, growers can harness the power of innovation to streamline production and increase efficiency in their greenhouse operations.
Analyst comment
Positive news: The growing demand for efficient technology in greenhouse operations is highlighted by the majority of growers investing in new technology to improve efficiency and reduce labor costs. This trend is expected to continue with a high percentage of growers planning to invest in new structures or expansions. As a result, the market for greenhouse technology is predicted to experience growth as growers prioritize productivity and profitability in the highly competitive industry.
