From concept to impact: how innovation drives Maan Horti Automation
Behind the scenes with Suzanne.
Innovation in horticultural automation goes far beyond a bright idea. It demands close collaboration, deep technical expertise, and the ability to transform concepts into practical, effective solutions. That is exactly what happens at Maan Horti Automation. In this article, Suzanne, projectlead at Maan Horti Automation, shares her knowledge, expertise, and craftsmanship.
Collaboration under one roof
“At Maan Horti Automation, research & development, engineering, and production teams work side by side — all under one roof. We collaborate closely with testers, market specialists, and growers themselves. From the first prototype to a fully refined, advanced machine, every step happens in-house — a truly unique approach.”, Suzanne explains.
This development approach ensures not only quality and speed but also creates a powerful synergy between departments, where teams strengthen each other’s capabilities and continuously push the boundaries of innovation.
Suzanne, project lead at Maan Horti Automation, explains: “You can experience the difference when knowledge and execution come together under one roof. When a tester, grower, or engineer suggests an improvement, we can have a prototype on the test bench in a shorter timeframe. From there, it’s just a short cut to the assembly team to adapt this improvement to the machines. That kind of speed, insight, and expertise of our teammembers is invaluable. The strategy fits our shared ambition to drive innovation forward — together”.
Designed with the market, for the market
A clear example of this approach is the newest line of Maan Horti Automation, namely the Advanced Dispenser Series. Which will be released during the GreenTech 2025.
This new generation of machines has been entirely designed and built in-house — tested in practise with continuous customer feedback. With customers fully integrated into the development process from the start.
“Our team worked hand-in-hand with growers and automation experts to create a scalable system that meets the industry’s growing demand for precision, repeatability, and sustainable performance”, Suzanne explains. She adds; “We don’t just develop for the market; we develop with the market. Many of our innovations are born from direct conversations with customers. When we combine their input with our technical expertise, real progress happens.”
Experience innovation firsthand
What truly sets the innovative development strategy apart is the opportunity for customers and partners to experience our technology firsthand.In our dedicated demo and development center at Raalte, visitors can see machines in action, explore the full innovation process, and meet the teams behind the technology — from developers to assembly technicians.
Being able to walk through the complete production and innovation chain in one visit offers rare transparency and builds genuine confidence in both the product and the partnership.
