At Blue Radix, we believe that innovation only creates value when it truly works for growers. That’s why we are pleased to introduce René as our new Sales Manager. With a strong background in horticulture and experience across the grower and technical side of the industry, he brings both practical insight and a strong understanding of the daily reality growers operate in. In his role, René will work with growers in the Netherlands, the DACH-region, the UK, and the Nordics.
Growing up in the Industry
René’s connection to horticulture began long before his professional career. “I was literally born into it,” he explains. Growing up in ’s-Gravenzande, Westland, around his parents’ flower-growing business, he developed an early fascination with both plants and the technology behind growing them. That curiosity led him to pursue an education in horticulture, followed by a career that spans over a decade of hands-on experience as a grower.
Over the years, René has worked in several different positions within the greenhouse sector. From production to energy management and technical installations, it is this experience that gives him a broad understanding of greenhouse operations. “I’ve been on both sides of the table. That helps a lot when I talk to growers, because I understand their reality.”
Joining Blue Radix
René joined Blue Radix because of its unique position in horticulture: combining innovation with deep industry expertise. What convinced him most was the company’s practical approach and focus on doing things right. Working with growers across the Netherlands, the DACH-region, the UK, and the Nordics, he sees that while markets differ in decision-making styles and expectations, growers everywhere face similar challenges. Topics like labour shortages, rising energy costs, and crop protection are top of mind for growers everywhere.
Making Autonomous Control understandable
For growers unfamiliar with autonomous greenhouse control by Crop Controller, René focuses on clarity and reassurance. “The biggest misconception is that it’s a ‘black box’ that takes over everything,” he says. “That’s not the case at all. The grower remains in control.”
Instead, the system supports growers by combining their strategy with data-driven execution. Using their unique climate data, crop models, and weather forecasts, Crop Controller continuously calculates optimal setpoints for climate and irrigation. “It’s not about replacing the grower, it’s about supporting them. You’re still defining the strategy; the system ensures it’s executed consistently and precisely, 24/7.”
A shift in how greenhouses are managed
One of the biggest shifts René sees once growers start with autonomous climate and irrigation control is moving from a reactive to predictive approach.
“Generally, adjustments are often made after something happens. Growers have immense knowledge and passion, but being continuously ‘on’ and responding at all times is simply not achievable in practice.” he explains. “With autonomous climate and irrigation control, you anticipate what’s coming, including weather changes, plant responses, and act ahead of time.”
This predictive approach reduces variability and improves consistency, which translates directly into better results. “We’re seeing significant energy savings, often 10% or more, while also improving climate uniformity.”
Just as importantly, it streamlines daily operations. “Growers save time. Instead of constantly adjusting settings manually, they can now focus more on crop strategy.”
Addressing concerns and misconceptions
When talking to growers, René understands that adopting new technology is an important decision. “Growing is a complex business, and growers want to be confident that any new solution will support their operation and crop strategy,” he says.
That’s why Blue Radix takes a transparent, step-by-step approach. Growers can first see how Crop Controller’s recommendations and decisions compare to their own before moving towards autonomous operation. “It allows growers to experience the technology in practice, gain insights, and build trust based on results.”
René also notices that some growers still view autonomous growing as something for the future. “In reality, it’s delivering value today,” he explains. “Crop Controller is successfully managing hundreds of hectares worldwide, helping growers optimize performance while keeping full visibility into their operation. The technology is proven, the opportunity now is to experience the value in each individual greenhouse.”
Working Closely with Growers
What René enjoys most about his role is working directly with growers. He values the conversations, the unique challenges of every greenhouse, and the opportunity to learn from each grower’s experience. Rather than focusing on sales, René believes in open dialogue: showing what we offer, listening to growers’ needs, and exploring whether there’s a good fit.
For growers who are interested but unsure, his advice is simple: start small and see what’s possible. By testing solutions with their own data and comparing results in practice, growers stay in control while discovering the potential value. As René puts it, “If it works and adds value to your business, the decision becomes much easier.”
Would you like to connect with René?
If you’re interested in learning more about our solutions or discussing the opportunities for your greenhouse, feel free to get in touch. René would be happy to explore how we can support your goals. Reach out by phone at +31 628 181 792 or by email at rene.mondt@blue-radix.com for more information.
