This strategic acquisition unites two innovative players in the sector and results in a fully integrated range of greenhouse logistics and robotics solutions, tailored to the grower of today and tomorrow.
The acquisition brings together two complementary portfolios. Where Berkvens excels in robust, practical means of transport, Octiva’s strength lies in innovative robotics and autonomous systems. Together they now offer a complete range of solutions in the field of logistics and automation in the greenhouse, tailored to every type of company and scale.
Berkvens Greenhouse Mobility develops, produces and installs complete greenhouse logistics solutions, which are products such as scissor lifts, harvesting trolleys and AGV for in the greenhouse. Octiva creates robotic automation solutions such as UV-C crop protection, scouting, autonomous spraying and spreading of beneficials.
It is no coincidence that both parties have now found each other. Berkvens and Octiva have been working closely together for a long time, during which they have thoroughly examined the possibilities of the merger.
Arie Meeuwissen, CEO of Taks Handling Systems, explains: “The acquisition of Berkvens Greenhouse Mobility is a logical step to combine product development and production capacity. Both Octiva and Berkvens are true manufacturing companies. This merger allows them to sharpen their focus. This is a clear win-win.” The acquisition makes Octiva, together with Berkvens, a strong player in the horticultural market. With 80 employees in Belgium and the Netherlands, housed in an R&D site in Leuven (BE) and the production site in Asten (NL), this is a fine example of entrepreneurship across borders. The next step is to open a branch in North America to better serve the Canadian and American markets.