VDL Groep acquires Crux Agribotics

VDL Groep is significantly expanding its foodtech activities with the acquisition of Crux Agribotics. With this move, the Eindhoven-based family business is doubling down on one of its key growth markets. Crux develops robots that sort, package and classify fruit and vegetables.

And not just any robots; these systems use data and artificial intelligence. Growers benefit through lower labor costs and reduced food waste. On top of that, the technology collects and analyses data to steadily improve the cultivation process. Like VDL, Crux is based in Eindhoven and employs sixty people.

Scaling up, faster than before

Now part of VDL, Crux gains the opportunity to scale up production, assembly and delivery at a faster pace, internationally too. This paves the way for expanding their solutions, especially within greenhouse environments. Willem van der Leegte, President and CEO of VDL Groep, is clear: “The expertise of our new colleagues adds value in accelerating further automation in greenhouse construction.”

According to him, their knowledge complements that of VDL Cropteq Robotics, a platform developing a robot that prunes cucumber leaves using a combination of AI, mechatronics and horticultural know-how.

High-tech with a long-term view

“We’re proud to welcome Crux Agribotics to the VDL family,” says Richard Vialle of parent company Kind Technologies. He sees Crux as a leading player in AgTech, enabling safer food production per square meter through high-tech systems. Using fewer resources, with a smaller footprint and less waste. All from Eindhoven: a company with drive, now embedded in a family business where long-term thinking is part of its DNA.

Vdlgroep.com