When the sun comes out, the screens close smoothly at Chosen Fresh Farms, and when night falls, the lights can be turned on while ensuring light abatement regulations are followed. The screen system at the Canadian greenhouse was completely renewed this year, marking one of the first joint projects between SCRE3NS and Horizon Screening Installations. The two companies have teamed up to provide Ontario's greenhouse growers with better solutions, faster service, and a more streamlined process.
"Since 2011, Horizon Screening Installations, led by John Klassen, has been installing energy and light abatement screen systems for various greenhouse projects. John, who started the business after years of working as a subcontractor, saw an opportunity to offer not just installation services but a more complete package—supplying materials and providing turnkey solutions for greenhouse operators. "In the past, I was focused on the installation side, but now we can deliver a full-service approach," says John. "It's a smoother process for the grower since they can come directly to us instead of dealing with multiple middlemen."
Pascal and John
North American and global expansion
SCRE3NS, as the name suggests, supplies complete screen systems. The company is part of the Atrium Agri group and is led by Pascal den Heijer and Barry Roessen. Acting globally, the North American market has become an important one for them over the years. With the partnership, SCRE3NS can now rely on local installation teams in Canada, something Pascal sees as a major advantage. "Previously, we had to send Dutch crews to handle installations. Now, with Horizon on board, we can offer skilled local crews, faster service, and stock materials on-site," he explains. "This partnership really lets us provide the complete package, including aftersales and maintenance, and ensures all screen installation is done according to the local health & safety regulation."
The collaboration between SCRE3NS and Horizon comes at a time when the greenhouse industry is shifting its focus toward energy efficiency, driven by rising energy costs and regulations around light pollution. Although the new-build market has been quite slow, many growers are upgrading their existing glass or poly greenhouses with LED lighting and light abatement curtains, making this partnership well-timed. "We're seeing more and more requests for energy-saving solutions, especially with light abatement systems," says Pascal. "It's not just about compliance; it's about long-term savings."
As an example of what's possible, and also as one of the first major projects under the new collaboration, they highlight Chosen Fresh Farms, a company that opted for a revision of its existing screening installation. Despite knowing the investment up front, Pascal and John still remain impressed with how smoothly everything went. They laugh as they recall the process. Materials arrived on time, the installation was efficient, and the grower had direct communication throughout. "It's been a great project," says John. "We're on schedule, and the team's doing an excellent job. The best part is how straightforward everything has been—no delays, no shortage of materials." Still, he won't confirm if this is the project he's most proud of. "What I'm most proud of is the team, they provide excellent work. Despite other screen installers coming in, we've seen consistent work due to the quality of work our team provides. That's what confirms for me that we have a good team."
John has seen the changes in the industry firsthand. "Ten years ago, we believed Leamington was full, and we were unsure what the future would hold. But growers have seen the potential here, and it's been amazing to see how many acres have gone up. Although the weather is rather extreme, with temperatures ranging from -10°C to humid and hot days, growers continue to do a great job and get a high yield, creating the perfect climate in their greenhouses."
Looking ahead, both companies are optimistic about the growing demand for greenhouse projects. Despite a competitive market and cautious investors, SCRE3NS and Horizon have several projects lined up for early 2025, with more expected to follow. "The market's picking up again," Pascal notes. "We've signed a few projects already, and there are others in the pipeline. It's a mix of new builds and renovation work, and we're ready to tackle them."
For more information:
Horizon Screening
John Klassen
[email protected]
www.horizonscreening.ca
SCRE3NS 
Pascal den Heijer
[email protected]
www.scre3ns.nl