Artechno's team was present at the AgraME fair in Dubai last week. A home game these days for the Dutch company specialized in vertical farming because since January 1 of this year, Artechno has had a local sales office in Dubai. From there, they operate throughout the Middle East region.
Art van Rijn, Michael Morgan, Marco van der Velden, and Sven Duijvestijn attend the trade fair in Dubai.
The General Manager of the Dubai location is Michael Morgan. He introduces himself below. He has been active in the industry for more than three decades.
Among other things, Michael explains why a new office in Dubai was chosen. "The Middle East has traditionally relied on exports for its fresh and nutritious food. It is no secret that the region's harsh climate is a major challenge for growing a variety of crops, making it difficult to grow locally. We see vertical farming and its ability to grow fresh produce year-round, regardless of location or climate, as a way to address these challenges and believe vertical farming will play a vital role in making the Middle East independent and self-sufficient." For Artechno, Dubai's central location makes it the perfect hub to serve the region. "We have found the country to be friendly, welcoming, safe, and most importantly, promising for our business."
Artechno aims to help companies in the region establish a business case for a fully automated vertical cultivation plant. "With full consideration of customer requirements, we try to achieve the most optimal balance between labor, production volume, operational costs, and investment."
Michael (third from right) in conversation at the fair
Why vertical farming?
"I see it as a big step forward in greatly reducing the carbon footprint of delivering vegetables without the use of plant protection products. Creating the perfect plant in an indoor controlled environment is what we are working on. Growing year-round, without the need for favorable weather, fertile soil, lots of water, and the usual high running costs currently associated with agriculture and horticulture. Since crops will be produced closer to consumers, logistical costs and environmental impact will be reduced. Maximum sustainability, therefore, a win-win for everyone involved in this active and exciting industry."
For more information: 
Artechno Middle East
Business Bay, Business Square,
Bldg. 4, office # 4
Dubai, Verenigde Arabische Emiraten
+ 971 - 50 817 51 61
michael.morgan@artechno.nl
info@artechno.nl
www.artechno.nl