Belgian Manufacturer Introduces Harvesting Robots for Tomatoes for the First Time
The harvesting robot from inaho successfully completed a two-year pre-commercial testing phase in the Netherlands. Now, this innovative technology will be tested for the first time in Belgium at Olbrechts Tomaten in 2026. This is expected to be an important step for the spread of robotic solutions in greenhouse farming across Europe.
This is reported by AgroReview
Impressive Results from Field Trials in the Netherlands
In 2025, inaho conducted extensive trials for harvesting snack tomatoes in Dutch greenhouses. The robots demonstrated a significant increase in efficiency: the harvesting speed consistently exceeded 45%, allowing workers to process two additional rows per day. The productivity of a single machine already exceeds 20 kilograms per hour, and four robots can service about one hectare of greenhouse.
In addition to high productivity, the robots were noted for their reliability — no serious malfunctions were recorded during the trials, and their functionality was confirmed in real conditions. Compared to previous tests, the operational speed increased by approximately twofold, while the harvesting speed tripled. This allowed the robots to reach a level sufficient for entering the commercial market.
Interest in Europe and Involvement of a Belgian Partner
The owner of Olbrechts Tomaten, Jeroen Olbrechts, explained why he decided to participate in testing the inaho robots. He emphasized the RaaS (Robot as a Service) model, which allows avoiding significant upfront costs, with usage payments comparable to labor costs. According to him, confidence in implementing the technology is bolstered by the already proven operation of the robots in commercial greenhouses.
“The RaaS model from inaho made it easier for us to commit — without large upfront costs, and the usage fee is comparable to labor costs. We saw that the robot is already working in commercial greenhouses and gained confidence in moving forward. For us, this trial is not just testing a machine, but preparing our team and systems for the next step in automation,” Olbrechts stated.
The director of inaho Europe emphasized that the integration of Olbrechts Tomaten as the first partner in Belgium reflects the growing interest in robotic harvesting technology across Europe. He also noted that, thanks to two successful seasons in the Netherlands, the technology is already ready for large-scale implementation, and early partners will receive priority opportunities regarding pricing, integration, and support.
Limited Testing Program and Prospects for Producers
Inaho announced the launch of a one-time closed testing program for snack tomato producers in 2026. Only one spot remains for participation in the one-month field testing. Participants will be selected based on operational readiness, with preference given to those who have previously collaborated with the company.
Early partners will receive several important advantages: access to robots during testing and subsequent commercial implementation, optimized pricing for scaling the project, and additional time to adapt operational processes in their greenhouses. This also increases the likelihood that future commercial versions of inaho robots will perfectly match the specific production conditions of the partners.
Considering the rapid development of automation in agriculture, the implementation of robots for tomato harvesting could significantly change approaches to cultivation and enhance the efficiency of greenhouse operations across Europe.