Climate Control Systems

This article details Climate Control Systems, a CEA technology company based in the United States. The interview is with Ian Morrell, Vice President of Sales at Climate Control Systems.

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How Did Climate Control Systems Originate?

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Climate Control Systems began 38 years ago, founded by Eric Labbate, who is now retired. Initially, it was involved in Climate Controls systems and Fertigation for greenhouses, until it met Nebula Group at a trade show. Nebula Group, focused on lighting systems integrating advanced technologies into lighting controls, recognized the potential in Climate Control Solutions' excellent yet under-marketed products. This led to the acquisition and further development of the company.

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What is the Current Focus of Climate Control Systems?

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Since its integration into Nebula Group, Climate Control Systems has internalized all programming efforts, which were previously outsourced. This strategic change has enabled the company to eliminate bugs more efficiently and adapt its products based on direct interactions with growers. This customer-centric approach ensures products are not only technologically advanced but also highly relevant and demand-driven.

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What Are the Current Challenges and Future Objectives of the Company?

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Climate Control Systems aims to integrate all systems into a cohesive unit, enhancing accessibility through modern technologies like tablets and smartphones. Expanding into diverse areas such as hog, poultry, and cattle operations reflects our commitment to comprehensive climate control Systems. However, the industry faces challenges like the fluctuating status of cannabis and economic slowdowns, which impact business strategies and expansion plans.

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What Are Some Noteworthy Business Metrics?

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Our primary focus is not just on increasing sales but on making a meaningful impact with growers and maintaining a high level of customer satisfaction. This approach has led to our presence in hundreds of global operations, with a strong emphasis on North America. Customer satisfaction often leads to repeat business and referrals as our reputation for solid customer support grows.

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What Crops Do You Primarily Work With?

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Climate Control Systems works with a variety of crops, including lettuce in deep water culture systems, tomatoes, cucumbers, cannabis, and increasingly popular strawberries. While our operations initially focused on glasshouse environments, we are expanding into the vertical farming sector.

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What Sets Climate Control Systems Apart?

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Our unique offerings include our approach to water treatment, especially our ozone-based systems, which stand out against the more commonly used UV systems in North America. Ozone is an eco-friendly option that increases dissolved oxygen for plants, offering a sustainable solution for water recycling in farming. Our precision in fertigation, using specific injectors and programming, allows us to target exact nutrient levels, setting us apart in the industry.

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How Extensive is the Company?

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The team at Climate Control Systems is compact but effective, consisting of about 10 staff members. Under the larger umbrella of Nebula Group, the total staff count ranges from 50 to 75, reflecting a dynamic and evolving organization.

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What is the Investment Range for Your Systems?

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The investment in our systems varies based on client needs. For example, a large ozone system can cost around $100,000-$120,000, while a fertigation system is about $50,000-$60,000. We also provide solutions for incoming water treatment and climate management, with average customer spending falling between $100,000 and $150,000.

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What is Your Perspective on Container Farming?

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Container farming's viability depends on the grower's commitment and understanding of the specific requirements and limitations of the farming method. Success in this area requires a focused approach, as it's not a low-cost entry into vertical farming. Our expertise primarily lies in providing precision fertigation for these operations.

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What Have You Learned Since Joining Climate Control Systems?

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Being part of Climate Control Systems has been a rewarding experience, especially in contributing to solving food security issues. The positive environment and the opportunity to work with committed individuals make this sector particularly appealing.

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Where can people learn more about Climate Control Systems?

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Anyone interested in learning more about Climate Control Systems and our technologies can visit our website. This platform offers in-depth information and direct communication channels for queries or further engagement.

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