In an exciting step forward for the agricultural sector, members of Produced in Kent were recently given an exclusive preview of the latest technological advancements in farming. At a special event held in August, Dogtooth Technologies, a leader in agri-tech innovation, showcased its groundbreaking robotic fruit-picking technology to some of Kent’s top growers and producers. This demonstration marked a pivotal moment for local farmers, providing them with a firsthand look at innovations poised to revolutionize how soft fruits, like strawberries, are harvested.
The centrepiece of the event was a live demonstration of the robotic strawberry-picking technology developed by Dogtooth Technologies. Attendees watched in awe as the robots navigated table-top growing systems—commonly used in strawberry farming worldwide—with impressive precision and efficiency. This hands-on experience allowed local growers to witness how the robots autonomously locate ripe strawberries, pluck them with care, and sort the fruit according to supermarket quality standards, all while moving smoothly along the crop rows.
Dr. Duncan Robertson, CEO at Dogtooth Technologies, opened the event with an introduction to the technology and the motivation behind its development. “We are thrilled to showcase cutting-edge technologies that promise to transform horticulture,” Robertson said. He went on to explain that by combining low-cost harvesting robots with state-of-the-art AI control systems, they aim to create sustainable solutions that benefit both farmers and consumers.
Dogtooth Technologies has been at the forefront of robotic harvesting solutions since 2016, continuously improving their designs in collaboration with UK growers. Their latest generation of robots is capable of productivity levels comparable to human pickers. Using advanced autonomous navigation systems, the robots move seamlessly through rows of crops, identifying and picking only the ripest fruit. On-board quality control features ensure that each berry is graded and sorted before being placed directly into punnets that meet the exacting standards of supermarkets.
Despite the benefits, the adoption of robotic fruit pickers is not without challenges. High initial costs and the need for technical expertise can be obstacles for some farmers. However, the advantages in terms of efficiency, precision, and sustainability make these robots a valuable investment for modern agriculture. With many sectors of agriculture facing significant seasonal labour shortages these robots offer a timely solution. By providing a reliable, efficient workforce that doesn’t depend on human availability, robotic harvesting can help ensure crops are picked on time, reducing waste and supporting food security.
The event also sparked conversations about the potential for robotics to create new jobs in the agricultural sector. While robots may reduce the need for manual labour in certain tasks, they also open up opportunities for workers to engage in more skilled, tech-focused roles in operating, maintaining, and improving these systems.
Feedback from those in attendance was overwhelmingly positive, with many expressing optimism about the future of farming. The event not only introduced local growers to cutting-edge technology but also fostered collaborations and discussions about the future of agriculture in Kent. As the industry continues to evolve, it is clear that innovations like these will play a crucial role in shaping a more sustainable, efficient, and productive future for Kent’s farming.
For more information about Produced in Kent or how to become a member visit producedinkent.co.uk
