Key Takeaways
- Technology Acquisition: Oishii has acquired Tortuga AgTech’s intellectual property, assets, and engineering team to support the development of robotic harvesting technologies.
- Automation Goals: The integration of Tortuga’s AI-driven systems aims to increase harvesting efficiency and operational productivity.
- Operational Enhancements: Oishii’s Jersey City vertical farm currently uses 50 robots, with automation expected to surpass human harvesting accuracy by the end of 2025.
- Strategic Growth Plans: The acquisition is part of Oishii’s broader strategy to scale innovation-driven solutions in indoor agriculture.
- Product Accessibility: Oishii is developing new berry varietals, including the Nikko Berry, aimed at increasing affordability and market reach.
Oishii Acquires Tortuga AgTech’s Assets to Enhance Robotics
Oishii has acquired the intellectual property, assets, and engineering team of Tortuga AgTech. According to The Packer, this acquisition is expected to enhance Oishii’s existing robotic harvesting capabilities. Tortuga’s technologies include AI-based models, robotics software, and custom hardware, which will be combined with Oishii’s proprietary systems.
Oishii also maintains a partnership with Yaskawa Robotics to develop autonomous harvesting systems. The company currently uses 50 robots at its vertical strawberry farm in Jersey City and projects that automated systems will exceed human performance in harvesting accuracy by the end of the year.
The acquired technology from Tortuga is anticipated to improve forecasting and harvesting processes, with the goal of supporting scalable and efficient indoor farming.
Bridging Innovation and Tradition in Agriculture
Founded in 2016 and led by CEO Hiroki Koga, Oishii applies Japanese farming techniques to grow strawberries and cherry tomatoes in controlled indoor environments. The produce is pesticide-free and grown year-round, primarily serving high-end restaurants and luxury grocery stores.
International Expansion and Facility Growth
A portion of the $150 million Series B funding—announced in November 2024—is being used to support Oishii’s first international expansion in Tokyo, Japan. The Tokyo facility aims to address local demand for premium strawberries and promote regional food security.
Additionally, the funding is enabling the construction of a new indoor farm in New Jersey to scale production.
Strategic Collaborations and Automation Goals
Among the Series B investors, NTT has a noted interest in agricultural technology research. Oishii’s partnership with Yaskawa Electric is part of a long-term plan to automate various farming processes. These collaborations are central to the company’s efforts to enhance operational efficiency and reduce resource usage.
Oishii Product Developments
Introduction of the Oishii Rubī Tomato (2023/12/07)
Oishii released the Rubī Tomato, cultivated in indoor vertical farms. Known for its sweetness and texture, it is currently sold at Whole Foods in Jersey City.
Launch of the Koyo Berry (2023/02/24)
Oishii introduced the Koyo Berry, a Japanese cultivar known for its flavor and aroma. It is the second strawberry variety from the company, following the Omakase Berry.
Opening of the Jersey City Farm (2023/05/20)
Oishii’s largest vertical farm, located in a repurposed factory in Jersey City, uses automation and robotics to reduce energy and water consumption by 60% and 40%, respectively.
Looking Ahead
Oishii is continuing to expand its portfolio with new varietals, such as the Nikko Berry, designed to improve affordability and broaden consumer access. As the company integrates new technologies and grows its production footprint, it remains focused on developing efficient and scalable solutions in indoor agriculture.
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