Artificial Intelligence Optimizes Quality Control of Tomato Packaging in the Netherlands
Tomato producers in the Netherlands achieve yields of 80–100 kg of large tomatoes per square meter. After harvesting, significant attention is paid to the packaging and quality control processes, which are becoming increasingly automated thanks to the implementation of artificial intelligence-based technologies.
This is reported by AgroReview
GearStation: A New Standard in Quality Control
Agricultural company Schenkeveld actively utilizes the GearStation solution from technology firm Gearbox at its warehouse near Schiphol Airport. Currently, four such systems are operational at the facility, with plans to install a fifth during the current year. Following a brief testing period in mid-2025, the company significantly expanded the scale of the innovation’s use. As noted by Schenkeveld’s director, Piet van der Vel, this was the result of a deliberate decision:
“Labor is one of our largest expenses, alongside energy, and harvesting in greenhouses is particularly costly. This is where we want to recoup these investments,” he says.
GearStation automatically checks the quality and weight of each packaged box of tomatoes. The system is an integrated solution for quality and weight control of packages weighing between 5 to 10 kg. Using cameras, the system captures images of each box, after which artificial intelligence assesses the quality of the product. According to Simon Keizer, CEO and co-founder of Gearbox, such systems are a kind of “digital workers of the future.”
Efficiency, Savings, and Staff Improvement
Through process automation, GearStation provides more accurate control compared to random inspections. This helps reduce sorting costs and waste losses, as well as enhances the efficiency of staff utilization. Additionally, the system allows for precise weight measurement of packages, which has economic benefits. Piet van der Vel emphasizes the importance of optimal weight control:
“It’s impressive how much 1.5% excess weight costs annually. This technology means we can accurately determine when it is economically beneficial to allow more or less excess weight,” he notes.
One of the key advantages is the ability to link quality data to specific harvesters. This enables targeted training for staff based on results, which enhances both productivity and employee motivation.
Gearbox CEO Simon Keizer adds that new technologies contribute to the career development of employees, as companies can train workers in new competencies and promote them to operator positions. At Schenkeveld, operators are already working with digital images, not just weight metrics.
Gearbox manufactures GearStation for warehouses, allowing the system to be implemented for new clients within weeks. At the upcoming Fruit Logistica exhibition, the company will present a new version of packaging with a collapsible body and top sealing. Piet van der Vel emphasizes the additional value of the implementation:
“In our market, cost-effective production is extremely important. Technologies like GearStation help us control costs and ensure quality,” he concludes.