GreenTech-North-America-lays-the-foundation-for-future-growth-in-CEA

On September 23 & 24, GreenTech North America launched a new platform for the controlled environment agriculture (CEA) industry. The inaugural edition brought together growers, technology suppliers, researchers and industry leaders from across North America. The event featured 750 visitors and a sold-out exhibition floor with 110 exhibitors, highlighting the industry's commitment to supporting this new platform. Hosted at the Pennsylvania Convention Center in Philadelphia, the event delivered a high-quality environment for knowledge sharing and business connections, complemented by an exhibition floor showcasing advanced technologies, innovation and professional presentations.

Mariska Dreschler, Director Horticulture at GreenTech Global, commented: “Launching a new event is always a long-term investment. We are proud of the setup of the show. Looking at the presented companies from the USA, Canada and Europa, we thank the exhibitors, partners, speakers and visitors for their commitment throughout this first edition. While attendance was below our initial expectations, the quality of the event including the audience, reinforces the value of a dedicated GreenTech platform for the North American controlled environment agriculture industry. This inaugural edition has provided a meaningful foundation. Based on the results, including feedback from our respected stakeholders, we will evaluate and determine the most appropriate next steps for the platform’s future development in North America.”

Since announcing the event in 2025, GreenTech North America has drawn on the international expertise and network of the GreenTech portfolio while developing a concept tailored specifically to the needs of growers and suppliers in the United States and Canada. The strong engagement across both the exhibition and conference program generated meaningful conversations, new business connections and valuable industry insights. The organisers will build on these outcomes as preparations begin for the next steps.

The response from visitors & exhibitors demonstrated the value of creating a dedicated platform for the sector:

Visitors:

- “A very good first edition. The event provided excellent opportunities to engage openly with vendors. The speaker line-up was amazing, a lot of big names. Let this event grow even more.” - Maxfield Canto & Daniel Sypolt, Oishii (USA)

- “The show was highly informative and engaging, delivering valuable insights and meaningful connections. It’s a high-quality event and we look forward to joining again next year.” - Yufei Qian, University of Delaware (USA)

- As a first-time attendee at this new event, I really liked the quality of the insights. The event provided an excellent overview of the latest developments in controlled environment agriculture, particularly in automation, labor, and technology innovation. Philadelphia is a strategic location that brings together professionals from across the region including from New York City.” - Madhu thyagarajan, IKEA, (USA)

- “Exciting event! Great to see so many companies and topics discussed in one place. GreenTech North America brings together the complete CEA industry. I’ll definitely be back next year." - Brian Sawruk, Element Farms (USA)

Exhibitors:

- “This was a great inaugural year for GreenTech. The ability to continue conversations and relationships established in Amsterdam and have local conversations was invaluable.” - Tim Reusch, Dramm Corporation (USA)

- “This has been a very successful event for us. It takes time to build a new show, but the quality of attendees is already impressive. Being able to connect with our clients and engage with Dutch and European industry leaders makes this event particularly valuable. We are confident GreenTech North America will continue to grow, and we are very pleased with our experience. We will return next year.” - Jim Rearden, Biotherm (USA)

- “We need a premier event for horticulture and floriculture in North America to help our growers see the different technologies from around the world.” - Mauricio Manotas, Green Laniel (USA)

- “Since 9:30 AM to 5:45 PM I did not stop and did not have the time to check my email. This was a very busy day at GreenTech. We will be here in 2027.” - Luis Trujillo, Hoogendoorn (USA)

About GreenTech North America

GreenTech North America is part of the GreenTech portfolio and serves the horticulture industries of the USA and Canada. The goal is to meet the specific needs of growers, breeders, and suppliers. GreenTech North America enables a greater exchange of knowledge, experiences, and success stories of the horticultural industry in this region. The show is organized by RAI Amsterdam. Please find more information at https://www.greentech.nl/north-america