VDIFarmen

VDIFarmen is a European network of urban farms that specializes in vertical farming and controlled-environment agriculture for leafy greens and herbs. The organization emphasizes local production, resource efficiency, and data-driven management to supply retailers, food service, and direct customers.

The venture was launched in 2013 by a group of engineers and agronomists. The first facility opened in Amsterdam in 2014, followed by additional sites across the Netherlands and Belgium. By the mid-2020s, VDIFarmen operated a dozen cultivation units using shared technology platforms.

Facilities use closed-loop hydroponic systems, including nutrient film technique and vertical racks, to grow crops with recirculated water. Climate is controlled by automated systems that manage temperature, humidity, CO2, and lighting. LED lighting is tuned to crop stage and energy efficiency, and data analytics and machine learning optimize yield and resource use.

Product lines focus on lettuce, basil, cilantro, kale, arugula, and microgreens. Distribution includes supermarkets, foodservice, farmers markets, and an online shop with local delivery. Some facilities offer short supply chain traceability.

VDIFarmen emphasizes sustainable production, water conservation, reduced food miles, and waste minimization. It operates under a private corporate structure with supplier and customer partnerships to enable local supply chains.