NXTGEN Hightech Agrifood makes Dutch innovations internationally visible

From 4 to 6 February 2025, the World FIRA, the European event for Agro-Robotics, took place in Toulouse, France. Start-ups and established companies demonstrated the latest field robots, while a wide range of organisations presented their innovations and shared knowledge. NXTGEN Hightech Agrifood was prominently present in the NL Pavilion, together with FME and Fedecom, to show the strength and developments of Dutch robotics and technology in the Agrifood sector.

On a large screen in the NL Pavilion, the Dutch robots and their operation were shown, provided by FME, Fedecom and NXTGEN Hightech Agrifood. Around this screen stood, among others, AGxeed, Aigro and Luxeed with their solutions. The robot of Oddbot attracted a lot of attention and showed how Dutch innovations contribute to more efficient and sustainable agriculture.

There was also a lot of interest in the demonstrations of Dutch robots outside on the field. AGxeed and Aigro showed live how their machines operate and demonstrated the technological progress in autonomous agricultural systems.

In addition to the demonstrations, NXTGEN Hightech played a role in the substantive program. Suzanne Verboon, domain leader of NXTGEN Agrifood, gave a pitch on the impact of robotization within the Agrifood sector. In an international panel discussion led by Glenda from the University of California, Erik Pekkeriet (Wageningen University & Research) shared his vision on the future of robotization. In addition, the presentations by Jente Klein Holkenborg and Joep Tummers on data sharing and technology validation were well attended.

For the third time in a row, the Netherlands was strongly represented at World FIRA, led by Annelies Dijkema of the Dutch embassy. The event is not only about technology but also offers a platform for researchers, investors and robot builders from Europe, the US, South America, Asia and Israel to share knowledge and explore collaborations. The meetings, knowledge sessions and discussions made this edition valuable again and underlined the important role of the Netherlands in the development of agro-robotics.

The future of agrifood lies partly in autonomous and data-driven systems that are more efficient, sustainable and scalable. NXTGEN Hightech Agrifood contributes to this by not only accelerating innovations, but also improving and broadening them, so that the impact of technology spreads throughout the entire sector. By bringing together companies, knowledge institutions and technology developers, an ecosystem is created in which Handsfree Agrifood is no longer a pipe dream, but becomes reality.

Do you want to know how your organization can contribute to this transition? Contact us and discover the possibilities via NXTGEN Hightech Agrifood.