Located in the highlands of Jalisco, Berry Hill is a family-run business showing how technology is transforming protected agriculture in Mexico. In just one season, they managed to double their strawberry production thanks to the implementation of IIVO, now powered by Intelligent Algorithms.
But beyond the numbers, Berry Hill is a story of vision, sustainability, and commitment to its people.
From a family dream to a high-tech operation
José Ignacio Castillo, engineer and director of Berry Hill, grew up surrounded by agriculture. With experience at companies like Monsanto and Koppert Biological Systems, his vision was always clear:
"I wanted to bring the best of European technology to the Mexican countryside — but with a sustainable and human-centered approach." shared Ignacio.
© Gebr. Hoogendoorn B.V.José Ignacio Castillo
That's how Berry Hill was born: a family project that evolved from operating with mid-level technology to a 12-hectare hydroponic production facility, equipped with infrared sensors, PAR radiation monitoring, and a technical team dedicated to sustainable development.
"We don't just grow strawberries here," says Castillo. "This is a dream factory. We're incredibly proud of our workers, our product, and our home."
A digital transformation
As the operation expanded, the need for more precise and real-time control of the greenhouse became clear. The solution? Transitioning to IIVO.
© Gebr. Hoogendoorn B.V.
"The transition was very simple — easy to adapt to. It's very intuitive," says Adrián Hilario, grower at Berry Hill.
One of the biggest advantages, according to the team, is the ability to control all parameters — climate, ventilation, irrigation, humidity, and radiation — from a computer, tablet, or smartphone.
Intelligent algorithms and smarter decisions
The integration of Intelligent Algorithms, which anticipate crop needs and progressively adjust climate conditions with precision, has been a powerful tool for optimizing plant development. Still, much of their success lies in the Berry Hill team's ability to interpret the data and apply it strategically.
© Gebr. Hoogendoorn B.V.
"They allow us to analyze highly detailed data and make soft, gradual adjustments — not abrupt ones — which the plants respond to better," explains Adrián. "This results in larger fruit, better flavor, and stronger plants."
Thanks to this technology, the team shifted from reactive decisions to data-driven strategies, significantly improving operational efficiency.
© Gebr. Hoogendoorn B.V.
Tangible results in yield and quality
During their first full cycle with IIVO, Berry Hill reached a major milestone:
"This year we doubled our production compared to previous years. And with better flavor, higher Brix levels, and healthier plants," says Ignacio.
Beyond yield, their ability to respond quickly has greatly improved, enabling immediate adjustments without physically walking through the greenhouse.
More than a supplier, a partner
The technical support from the Hoogendoorn team has been crucial throughout the process.
"The support and guidance we've received from Hoogendoorn has been key. They don't act like just another supplier — they're a partner," says Ignacio.
"I personally recommend it. It's worth every cent. For a grower with a high-tech system, IIVO is a must-have tool," he concludes.
