Case Studies
Bevo Farms
Automating the earliest stages of crop growth for faster, stronger starts
Bevo Farms, one of North America’s top propagation growers, piloted a vertical rolling rack system to automate tomato plug production. With support from BCCAI, the project focused on improving transplant consistency, spacing precision, and nutrient delivery at scale. The system was developed not only to improve Bevo’s own operations, but also to serve as a scalable propagation solution for greenhouses and vertical farms across North America.
Business Problem:
Plug propagation is a labour-intensive stage that directly affects downstream crop health. Inconsistent spacing, watering, or timing creates inefficiencies that are especially costly under ongoing labour shortages. Commercial growers need early-stage systems that are reliable, scalable, and efficient.
BCCAI Service Offering:
- Matched project funding
- Technical consulting on transplant automation
- Business case modeling and market readiness support
- Strategic connections to greenhouse and tech partners
Insight
Bevo introduced vertical transplant automation to reduce handling, increase spacing accuracy, and improve overall plug uniformity. The pilot aimed to strengthen early-stage crop performance while reducing time and labour demands in propagation environments.
Project Outcome & Impact:
Innovation
Improved efficiency in early-stage tomato propagation
Impact
More consistent transplant spacing and crop starts
Future Growth
Scalable model for other greenhouse operations in B.C.
Validation
Vertical rolling rack pilot completed
“Automating the earliest stages of plant growth gives producers a stronger foundation—so they can grow with confidence.”
— Rahul Singh, Director, Innovation & Technology, BCCAI
