HAWE Cultivation Systems

This interview details HAWE Cultivation Systems, an indoor farming technology company based in the Netherlands. The interview is with Jelmer Huizing, Commercial Manager at HAWE Cultivation Systems.

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What is the origin story of HAWE Cultivation Systems?

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We've been around when it comes to developments in greenhouse horticulture. Where it once started with the development of electric carts, we have developed into the architects of smart cultivation systems with a clear focus on mobile gutter systems and mobile container systems. Our systems are used worldwide and are suitable for a wide variety of cultivation types in both the food and floriculture sectors. Since 1958.

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What are some of the biggest challenges facing HAWE Cultivation Systems in the future? 

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The global agricultural sector faces several challenges, including climate change, population growth, and the need for more sustainable agricultural practices. Climate, water scarcity, labour costs, working conditions, energy costs, and sales are the present-day challenges growers need to manage to achieve their goals. Our mobile cultivation systems are just part of the solution to this puzzle.

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In our corporate presentation, I always show a matrix stating below “Pains” and “Gains” that we like to highlight. No matter where in the world, these themes are always relevant and presence, to a greater or lesser extent. 

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Pain         Gain

Labour > Labour saving and improving working conditions.

Sustainability > Save water and nutrients by collection and recycling.

Hygiene > Improve hygiene circumstance to lower disease pressure.

Quality > Improve crop quality for longer shelf life and premium price. 

Yields > Optimize yield per available surface.

Opex & Capex > Modular components makes it easy to configure and enable future expansion.

Smart automation & robotization brings higher operational efficiency. 

Proces > Value stream mapping for optimized processes.

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What is unique about HAWE Cultivation Systems compared to competitors?

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HAWE Cultivation Systems, as a member of the KUBO Group, is different from its competitors in the horticultural sector on several fronts. The KUBO Group, a leading international player in horticulture, contributes to HAWE's unique characteristics and strength within this industry. KUBO now looks back on more than 75 years of history in greenhouse horticulture. A family business with a stable foundation, where the third generation is at the helm.

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Furthermore, we place a strong focus on advanced technologies in the agricultural sector and we’re committed to continuous innovation to provide efficient, sustainable, and tailor-made solutions to the challenges faced by the agricultural sector. As part of the KUBO Group, HAWE can benefit from the rich expertise and global experience of its parent company, giving it a clear competitive advantage. By entering into collaborations and leveraging knowledge from different parts of the world, HAWE benefits from the group's global approach. This international perspective allows HAWE to develop solutions that are both locally and globally relevant. 

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Our team steps in with a seasoned vision and extensive experience. Together we achieve the impact our clients are looking for. In their current process versus the desired process. Together we get to the core, where our technology only provides the means to achieve any growers goal. 

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Building on decades of knowledge and experience, HAWE is always able to provide appropriate advice. All of our cultivation systems are modular and can be expanded, adjusted, and combined, so that they always respond to our client needs, now and in the future. And to prove this, we have our own test site where we embrace our solutions on a daily basis. Where we develop and extensively test new technology and optimizations, or can set up a specific test for you if required.

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What are some other relevant metrics of the company (growing area size, production quantity, team size, etc.)?

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With an impressive track record worldwide of around 500 realized projects over the past years, I think HAWE has proven itself as a reliable partner in the horticulture sector. 

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At HAWE, we focus not only on growth in size but also diversity in projects. Our portfolio includes both complex multi-layer projects and simpler solutions, tackling each challenge with dedication. What drives us is not only the success of our projects but above all the satisfaction of our customers. We aim to provide suitable and effective solutions that meet the unique needs of each client, making them look to the future with confidence and satisfaction.

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We are based in Schipluiden, the Netherlands. 

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What are some goals in 2024 and beyond for HAWE Cultivation Systems?

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For decades, HAWE has been known as the developer of “logistical systems”. But we believe a mobile cultivation system is much more than just a logistics solution. It is a crucial part of your primary business process. We believe that centralizing labor holds the key to optimizing cultivation and processes. This is therefore central to our approach, and will continue to deploy our research and development on this. 

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The challenges can be complex, but with an innovative international vision, HAWE Cultivation Systems shall thrive amidst the evolving agricultural context. By constantly striving to advance and collaborating with stakeholders worldwide, the company shall continue to provide sustainable, effective and tailored solutions for the future of the CEA-sector. 

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How can people connect with you or learn more about HAWE Cultivation Systems?

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Do you have questions or would you like an informal meeting to find out more about HAWE Cultivation Systems and our innovative approaches in the agricultural sector? Or maybe you just fancy an informal (online) coffee to exchange ideas?

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Don't hesitate to contact us! We are ready to answer your questions, discuss ideas and explore possibilities. You can reach us or leave a message on our website.

www.hawe.nl

Jelmer Huizing
jhuizing@hawe.nl
+31 6 207 07 653

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