Since its first installation in France back in 2022, Techponics' dynamic spacing system has grown from an experimental concept into a scalable, commercial-ready platform now expanding across Europe. Developed to enhance flexibility, productivity, and adaptability in hydroponic production.
Dynamic spacing sits at the core of Techponics' patented system. Their software-controlled shuttles progressively increase spacing during the crop cycle, so plants get the room they need exactly when they need it. The result: higher productivity, better airflow, fewer bottlenecks at transplant/harvest, and more predictable output at scale. The team shares that, according to their knowledge, no one has brought such a robust, scalable approach to market.
"Our vision has never changed," says Louis Belloin, Co-Founder of Techponics. "Dynamic spacing is the missing piece in today's industry as it's the lever that unlocks both productivity and system flexibility."
We have engaged with 150+ growers worldwide, whose feedback consistently validates our direction.
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From lab to field
Originally intended for high-tech greenhouse operations, the system's simplicity and performance drew unexpected interest also from open-field growers. This demand led Techponics to adapt its technology for a wider range of conditions without over-complicating the design.
"The market pulled us forward," Louis says. "That demand pushed us to harden the design for varied environments, without over-engineering it."
The company re-engineered core components like the gutter system to be lighter and more durable, and streamlined transplant and harvest operations. Throughput improvements have delivered productivity gains of around 30%. Software and mechanical shuttle systems were also upgraded to handle basin lengths over 200 meters.
From R&D to the first client
They have installed their first commercial installation (after two prototypes in France and Belgium): a 1,000 m² installation with a conventional field grower. "It's modest in size for us, but a powerful proof of concept," Louis says. They now have the experience and are ready to deploy commercially. "Convincing a full-field producer to test soilless production on his own site shows how accessible and adaptable the system has become." We are now organizing visits with growers from all over Europe. People from the UK, Switzerland, and France have already seen the installation.
Simple by design for targeted profitability
In contrast to high-tech systems with many failure points, Techponics prioritizes simplicity. "From day one, we wanted something simple and affordable. Any developments that were not in line with this were reworked." With fewer moving parts and minimal electronics, the system is easier to maintain and more reliable, especially in regions with infrastructure or manpower constraints.
"We've developed the system growers want: simple to run, easy to maintain, productive, and affordable - ultimately enabling grower profitability, which is the cornerstone of our model," the very point Louis insists on.
"Our spacing system is deliberately low-tech where it matters," Louis states. "Fewer electronics mean fewer failure points and higher uptime."
© Techponics
Supporting growers after the start of the system
Understanding that some of their clients are new to hydroponics or automation, Techponics provides operational support and training beyond installation. Their team includes former DFT system growers and crop specialists who assist on-site.
"We pair technology with people," Louis explains. "Our goal is to build confidence quickly and support teams through the learning curve."
Focused expansion
Currently focused on leafy greens, the system's dynamic spacing logic is adaptable to other crops. However, expansion is deliberate.
"We're focused on delivering current projects and expanding capacity before we broaden the crop portfolio." The company has active installations or projects underway in France, Switzerland, Eastern Europe, Greece, Italy, and Spain, with U.S. partnerships under discussion.
AI as decision support for the future
Techponics is working on integrating AI into its platform to assist growers. Overhead cameras will regularly scan crop canopies, and AI models analyze images to recommend spacing changes, detect anomalies such as uneven growth, and improve harvest forecasts.
"Our AI layer will transform images into action. It will suggest spacing moves, highlight issues, and become a real co-pilot for the grower."
This feedback loop supports better labor planning, yield prediction, and crop uniformity. The monitoring system is in development and will soon be deployed.
"Eight months ago, we were closing R&D," Louis reflects. "Today we're scaling, delivering, and serving our first customers. The technology is robust, the economics are attractive, and our roadmap is clear."
For more information:
Techponics
Louis Belloin, Co-Founder
+4178 319 87 78
[email protected]
www.techponics.ag
