In a significant step towards bolstering international collaboration in the agritech sector, Kent recently played host to a delegation of industry leaders, academics, and innovators from the UK and the Netherlands. This gathering was part of a three-day agritech mission organized by the British Embassy in The Hague and the UK government’s Department for Business and Trade, aimed at exploring trade opportunities and technological innovations that can address pressing challenges such as climate change.
Kent, known for its rich agricultural heritage and innovative food production techniques, served as a fitting backdrop for discussions focused on the future of agritech. The region is home to a vibrant agritech ecosystem that encompasses a wide array of sectors, including consumer-based applications, food processing, sustainable packaging, and advanced farming systems. The mission highlighted the potential for Dutch companies to invest in the UK’s agritech landscape, showcasing the sizeable opportunities for growth and collaboration.
Delegates were treated to an insightful tour of NIAB’s East Malling site, a renowned center for applied research and innovation in commercial horticulture. Here, they witnessed groundbreaking projects utilizing artificial intelligence and machine learning to enhance early detection and prevention of pests and diseases in orchards and vineyards. Another notable initiative presented was focused on employing new technologies to boost strawberry yields, underscoring the innovative spirit that characterizes Kent’s agritech sector.
The tour also included visits to the labs of two prominent agritech firms located at Discovery Park in Sandwich. Harmoniz Seeds, which recently inaugurated a new demonstration greenhouse in the Netherlands, and Ventera Bio, a biotech firm engaged in research and experimental development, exemplify the region’s commitment to fostering innovation.
Nick Fenton, CEO of Locate in Kent, emphasized the importance of this mission in showcasing Kent and Medway as a pivotal region for food and drink innovation in the UK. He noted that the area contributes significantly to the national economy, with the food and drink sector alone generating £104.4 billion. “This story is built on strong heritage and partnership – and there’s much more to come,” he stated, highlighting the potential for further growth and collaboration.
Dr. Nikki Harrison, director of Growing Kent and Medway, echoed these sentiments, pointing out the substantial investment opportunities available for agritech businesses in the region. With some of the largest horticultural producers in the UK and a cluster of cutting-edge research facilities, Kent and Medway present an attractive proposition for innovative companies seeking to expand their operations.
Mayer Schreiber, CEO of Discovery Park, added that the park serves as a major hub for innovation, accommodating over 160 companies ranging from global corporations to dynamic startups. He noted the presence of Grow Up Farms, a leader in the vertical farming industry, which produces pesticide-free salad leaves for consumers across the UK. Schreiber emphasized the strategic advantages of Discovery Park’s location, with its proximity to London and convenient transport links to Europe, making it an ideal environment for fostering growth and innovation in the agritech sector.
The visit of industry leaders from both the UK and the Netherlands is seen as crucial for nurturing partnerships and creating new opportunities in agritech. The UK government’s support for trade missions to Kent is expected to bolster the local economy, create jobs, and reinforce Discovery Park’s status as a global innovation and technology hub.
As the agritech sector continues to evolve, collaborations like these are vital for addressing the challenges of climate change and ensuring sustainable food production. The commitment from both the UK and Dutch stakeholders signals a promising future for agritech innovation, with Kent positioned as a key player in this dynamic landscape.
