The past two days were filled with critical panels that uncovered the CEA investment landscape, product opportunities, future markets, current projects and hassles. Joined by numerous attendees online, and in person from many geographical backgrounds, the show offered many critical panels and an exhibitor floor that comprised both horticulture and vertical farm suppliers.
Ben van der Heiden, Arnoud Bolten and Jakob Boxhoorn
CEA operators in retail
The opportunities for CEA lettuce in retail in North America are mutually agreed upon. Although the American and Canadian markets are two different landscapes, panelists highlighted that salad kits are one of the fastest-growing categories that caught consumer preferences, alongside salad dressings. Viraj Puri, CEO of Gotham Greens mentioned in one of the panels that consumers are seeking convenience. Another interesting add-on product is salad dressings, which both greenhouse and vertical farm operators have tapped into. "It's a fun opportunity to connect with consumers, and drive revenue and margin," Viraj says.
80 Acres Farms has been playing into the dressing aspect as they've acquired a company that allows them to produce salad dressings. "If we're less than 5% in the category, that's where the most opportunities are just yet," commented Jed Lynch of 80 Acres Farms.
Vihari Konellu and Sairam Reddy of UrbanKisaan were ready to talk more about their ongoing projects around the globe. More to come soon...
The Flier team was all smiles Ad Kranedonk, Michiel van der Waal, and Ard Flier
Critical notes about the investment landscape were set that it's been changing for the past years. However, since investors lent cheap money at first, they've also become more knowledgeable about the industry, the business model and the entire vertical supply chain, meaning that now they can think along and be more critical when viewing potential cases. 'It's not a bad thing' as it indicates the industry is maturing.
The Signify team with Ellis Janssen, Blake Lange, Allison Driskill, Kyle Barnet and Colin Brice
Since there were quite a few Dutchies around, Bosman van Zaal couldn't help but support their home country during the UEFA European Championship which didn't have the best outcome unfortunately as the Dutch got beaten with 3-2...
Keep an eye out for the photo report on Friday. If we missed to get your photo at the event, feel free to send it over to [email protected] so we can include it in the photo report.