Flikweert Vision supports Dutch farm in improving potato sorting efficiency

A family farming business in the Netherlands, led by Mark and Jos, has combined dairy and arable operations to improve efficiency and product quality. Originally focused on dairy farming in Slootdorp, the business expanded six years ago with an arable branch in Anna Paulowna, growing mainly seed potatoes and sugar beets under a shared cropping plan. Mark manages the dairy herd, while Jos oversees arable farming and sorting activities.
 

The challenge

Before adopting optical sorting technology, the sorting process was labor-intensive and time-consuming, requiring multiple workers on the sorting line. The reliance on external labor increased costs and created variability in quality. Sorting activities often extended throughout the winter, delaying other essential farm operations.

Jos de Nijs:

"We want to limit the use of external labor as much as possible while still delivering consistent quality."

Jos de Nijs – arable farmer / co-owner of the farm

The choice of Flikweert Vision

A key turning point came when fellow arable farmer Jaap Reselman agreed to co-invest in an optical quality sorter. This collaboration enabled the business to reduce dependency on external labor, increase sorting capacity and improve consistency. After evaluating several suppliers, Flikweert Vision was selected for offering a solution that fit within the existing line and was supported by strong references.
 

Implementation and collaboration

The sorting line was first adapted based on technical drawings, allowing the optical sorter to be installed efficiently and enabling a phased investment approach. The system proved easy to operate and reliable, even in dusty conditions.

Flikweert Vision’s QualityGrader optical sorter installed on a Dutch farm to improve potato sorting efficiency and consistency

Jos de Nijs and Jaap Reselman:

"The service department is easy to reach and helpful with questions or adjustments."

The QualityGrader operates reliably in daily use and is integrated smoothly into the farm’s operations.
 

Results

Since implementation, the business has achieved improved structure and efficiency. Sorting speed has increased and product quality has become more consistent. The higher capacity allows more hectares to be processed in less time, reducing labor requirements and freeing up time for other farm activities such as fieldwork and maintenance.

Employees have responded positively to the changes, and the improved workflow has contributed to greater operational stability. Cooperation with neighboring farms has also helped reduce investment barriers and accelerate adoption of the technology.
 

Looking ahead

The next step for the business is the introduction of optical selection for seed potatoes, identified as another major labor bottleneck. Further automation is expected to enhance efficiency, consistency and long-term sustainability of operations.