Saga Robotics Expands Thorvald Robotic Services Across the UK, Revolutionizing Strawberry Farming
Saga Robotics, a trailblazer in agricultural technology, has announced a major expansion of its Thorvald robotic services across the United Kingdom for the upcoming growing season. With new operational hubs established in Kent, the South, and Scotland, Saga Robotics is now a national provider of autonomous robotic services, setting a new benchmark for sustainable and efficient strawberry production.
This season, Saga Robotics is operating across an area four times larger than last year, thanks to strategic partnerships with nine of the UK’s most innovative strawberry growers. In Kent, the company is collaborating with industry leaders such as Clock House Farm, Rumwood Green Farm, Hugh Lowe Farms, and Chambers Farms. In the South, Thorvald’s services are being utilized by New Forest Fruit Company and The Summer Berry Company, while in Scotland, the robot is working with key members of the Angus Growers Group, including LM Porter and East Scryne Farm. These partnerships highlight Saga Robotics’ ambition to become the UK’s leading autonomous robotics service provider.
Growers Praise Thorvald’s Impact
Sandy Booth, owner of New Forest Fruit Company, emphasized the transformative benefits of integrating Thorvald into their operations, particularly in reducing pesticide use and improving yield quality. “Over the past few years, we’ve been working to integrate robots into our strawberry-growing processes,” Booth said. “Shifting toward non-chemical crop protection through robotic technology helps us protect the environment while advancing our innovation and sustainability goals. Partnering with an industry leader like Saga Robotics enables us to drive positive change.”
Similarly, Angela Porchez, General Manager at Angus Growers in Scotland, highlighted the potential of Thorvald to enhance sustainable farming practices. “Adopting the Thorvald platform positions us at the forefront of agricultural innovation in Scotland,” Porchez said. “This technology opens up new possibilities in strawberry production, with its advanced crop management and disease control services aligning perfectly with our commitment to sustainable agriculture. Collaborating with Saga Robotics makes us the first in Scotland to adopt such cutting-edge robotic technology, reinforcing our dedication to environmentally responsible farming.”
Thorvald’s Transformative Impact
Saga Robotics’ Thorvald platform is revolutionizing strawberry farming in the UK. Currently treating nearly one in ten berries, Thorvald has achieved a remarkable 60-90% reduction in pesticide use and delivers a 40% return on investment for growers. Notably, a single Thorvald 3 robot, over its lifetime, can offset the equivalent of the annual greenhouse gas absorption of around 3,000 mature trees, reducing approximately 150 tonnes of emissions.
Sustainability Meets Profitability
Anne Dingstad, CEO of Saga Robotics, underscored Thorvald’s dual benefits of sustainability and profitability. “In an era where sustainability and health are paramount, Thorvald represents a significant leap forward,” Dingstad said. “We’re not just reducing chemical use; we’re creating a synergy between technology and nature for a healthier, safer, and more sustainable approach to food production. As we expand, more of the UK’s leading growers are choosing Thorvald as their go-to solution for environmentally sustainable and commercially viable pest management.”
Introducing the Next-Gen Thorvald 3
The latest iteration, the Thorvald 3 robot, marks a significant advancement in robotic farming technology. Designed for enhanced productivity and scalability, it utilizes high-intensity UV-C light to combat powdery mildew, drastically reducing the need for chemical treatments. Additionally, Thorvald 3 is equipped with a growing suite of automated tools, including advanced data collection capabilities and predatory mite dispensing. These features enable the robot to excel in a wide range of tasks, from disease management to crop prediction, offering a comprehensive autonomous service for UK strawberry growers.
As Saga Robotics continues to expand its footprint across the UK, Thorvald is poised to redefine the future of sustainable agriculture, proving that cutting-edge technology and environmental stewardship can go hand in hand.
