Key Takeaways
- Laudando & Associates (L&A) has appointed Federico Magistri as Principal Perception Engineer, strengthening its agricultural robotics team.
- Magistri is a Ph.D. candidate at the University of Bonn and has received multiple awards for his research in robotic perception systems.
- L&A has completed its first international sale of the L&Aser™ laser weeding system, expanding into the Australian market.
- The company continues to develop AgCeption™ phenotyping and robotic solutions, with additional international deployments expected in 2025.
- L&A has built a self-sustained business model without venture capital, supporting long-term growth and profitability.
Strengthening Agricultural Robotics Expertise
Federico Magistri Joins L&A as Principal Perception Engineer
Laudando & Associates LLC (L&A), a California-based AgTech firm, has announced the appointment of Federico Magistri as Principal Perception Engineer. Magistri, a Ph.D. candidate at the University of Bonn’s Center for Robotics, specializes in advanced perception systems for autonomous robotic phenotyping, cultivation, and harvesting applications.
His work in computer vision and machine learning for agricultural robotics has been recognized with multiple awards at major robotics conferences, including ICRA and IROS. In addition to his work at the University of Bonn, he has held visiting research positions at:
- Queensland University of Technology (Australia)
- Sapienza University (Italy)
- Wageningen University & Research (Netherlands)
At L&A, Magistri’s expertise will accelerate the integration of next-generation perception technologies into robotic solutions for farmers, improving crop monitoring, harvesting efficiency, and sustainable farming practices.
“Federico’s contributions in agricultural robotics will significantly advance our ability to deliver practical, AI-driven solutions to farmers,” said Chris Laudando, President of L&A. “His expertise will help us continue pushing the boundaries of what’s possible in autonomous farming technology.”
L&A Expands Globally with First International Sale of L&Aser™
Laser Weeding Technology Enters the Australian Market
In addition to expanding its talent pool, L&A has announced its first international sale of its patent-pending L&Aser™ laser weeding technology in Australia. This milestone reflects growing global demand for chemical-free, automated weeding solutions, especially as farmers face:
✅ Rising labor costs
✅ Regulatory restrictions on chemical herbicides
✅ Diminishing effectiveness of conventional crop protection methods
“Strong global demand for the L&Aser™ underscores the urgency attached to chemical herbicide resistance and the atrophy of farmer profitability,” said Laudando. “We’re passionate about helping farmers worldwide, and with an expanded team, we expect additional international L&Aser™ deployments in 2025.”
The L&Aser™ modules, which provide a targeted, non-chemical weed control alternative, are now available for $15,000 in the U.S. and $25,000 internationally.
Product Expansion and Future Developments
AgCeption™ Product Line Continues to Grow
L&A is also advancing its AgCeption™ product line, which includes robotic phenotyping and precision agriculture tools. Current offerings include:
- $25,000 AgCeption™ Corn-o-Scope – A high-precision corn phenotyping system.
- $20,000 AgCeption™ Ear-Height Phenotyping System – For detailed crop analysis and yield prediction.
Upcoming Developments Through the Catalyzer Program
L&A is also working on several new innovations under its Catalyzer program, which supports bootstrapped AgTech entrepreneurs. Future product launches will focus on:
- AgCeption™ Commercial Pollinator – Designed to enhance pollination efficiency.
- AgCeption™ Greenhouse Phenotyping – Providing automated plant monitoring in controlled environments.
- AgCeption™ Broomrape Detection System – Assisting in early identification of parasitic weed infestations.
Laudando & Associates: A Self-Sustained Business Model for Growth
Unlike many AgTech startups, L&A has built a profitable, self-sustaining business model without reliance on venture capital funding.
“It has taken nearly five years, but we’ve built a business foundation for sustainable growth—without venture capital,” said Laudando. “That’s a significant achievement in an industry known for rapid capital burn.”
As L&A continues to expand its robotics expertise and international market reach, the company remains focused on delivering practical, farmer-centric solutions to improve agricultural efficiency, sustainability, and profitability.
