Berry Hill: Doubling Strawberry Production with IIVO and Intelligent Algorithms

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.

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. This is a dream factory. We’re incredibly proud of our workers, our product, and our home.”

Digital Transformation with IIVO

As the operation expanded, the need for more precise and real-time control of the greenhouse became clear. The solution? Transitioning to IIVO.

“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.

“No matter where we are, we can check the system and, through the graphs, see if the greenhouse is behaving as expected.”

Intelligent Algorithms, 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.

“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.

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.

Technology in the service of a sustainable model

But at Berry Hill, technology isn’t just about productivity— it’s a key part of their sustainable and socially responsible production model:

• Exclusive use of biological controls, no pesticides
• Water recirculation systems for maximum efficiency
• Over 50% of energy sourced from solar panels
• Employee commitment: social security, educational programs, and professional growth opportunities

Is your greenhouse ready for the next level?

Berry Hill’s experience proves that when vision, technical expertise, and tools like IIVO and its Intelligent Algorithms come together, it’s possible to transform a greenhouse operation into one that is more productive, efficient, and sustainable.