At the end of 2021, Dry Hydroponics B.V. and Daeyoung GS Co. Ltd. signed an exclusive cooperation agreement for the South Korean market. What motivates the Dutch deep water specialist to make this step to South Korea? Maurice van der Knaap, CEO of Dry Hydroponics, shared their arguments. “In general, we are working with everybody. Many projects are realized by different teams, each a specialist in their field. We believe, that will bring our customers in the best possible position to operate their business. Therefore, exclusive cooperation deviates from our usual strategy. Since Daeyoung GS and we have a shared vision, and the activities are very complementary, such close cooperation is a logical step and will create the most optimal support for the customers in South Korea.
As a deep water specialist, Dry Hydroponics does not only supply equipment, but also supports, educates, and coaches the customers, even many years after a project is commissioned. Of course, language and cultural differences between Europe and South Korea cannot be underestimated. Daeyoung GS followed the activities of Dry Hydroponics for some years. They are convinced, Dry Hydroponics is the deep water specialist that delivers the necessary quality with the desired flexibility, also for the South Korean market.’’
Peninsula in center of Asia
Climate wise, it is more challenging to grow in South Korea than in the Netherlands. Maurice explains why: “Winters and summers are harsh there. The experience we have gained from our successful projects in the Northeast USA (a similar climate zone) is very helpful to support South Korean growers. If more leafy greens need to be produced locally, 365 days per year, only advanced Controlled Environment Agriculture (CEA) can make that work. Together with Daeyoung GS, Dry Hydroponics can realize that transition for South Korean growers.”
Opportunities
Daeyoung GS already represents and sells several Dutch quality CEA brands. Why are they interested in adding Dry Hydroponics to their portfolio? “Right now, there is still limited advanced CEA for leafy greens in South Korea. In general, South Korean growers are open for new ideas, but proven technology elsewhere is not the same as a proven business case in South Korea. Fortunately, we have the chance to create proof.” Maurice says enthusiastically. “In Q1 2022 our first mutual project will go live. Building a 2.5 acre production facility for leafy greens is executed as we speak and goes as planned. I am proud to say that even with the huge hurdles created by the global pandemic, Daeyoung GS and Dry Hydroponics have their material supply under control. So, the first seeds will be sown soon."
For more information:
Dry Hydroponics
Mr. Maurice van der Knaap
mvdk@dryhydroponics.nl
www.dryhydroponics.nl
Daeyoung GS
Mr. K.S, Lyu
lyu@dygs.co.kr
www.dygs.co.kr