Hamill APS

This interview details Hamill APS, an Agricultural Processing Solutions company based in Canada. The interview is with Robert Benner, CEO of Hamill APS.

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What is the origin story of Hamill APS? 

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We started as a machine shop in 1948 in Niagara Falls, Canada. In 2015, we were approached by a local greenhouse grower who wanted to automate the process of harvesting microgreens.

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Throughout the process, we realized how much of a need there was for harvesting equipment and how crucial it was for growers to optimize their farms. We opened a division of Hamill in 2018 called Hamill Agricultural Processing Equipment (Hamill APS) to service the agricultural sector. Since that first harvester, we have designed and built machines that can harvest trays from twelve inches to sixty inches wide and in a variety of growing conditions. Collaborating directly with growers and developers, we provide solutions that fit their unique harvesting needs.

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As with many emerging markets, processing equipment can be difficult to find, and we also saw a need for other processing equipment. We now have a full line of post-harvesting equipment including a root cutter, tray flipper, conveyors, and tray and bin washers. We also design and build the Electrical panels and have them certified to ship worldwide. This technology allows our customers fully integrate our equipment into their current processes. We take pride in purchasing all our equipment components onshore as well as manufacturing in Niagara Falls. We have completed many workshops, tradeshows, and summits to ensure we are up to date with the newest technology and standards. 

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What are some of the biggest challenges facing Hamill APS in the future?

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The Indoor Farming Industry has had serious challenges in becoming profitable and new companies have faced funding challenges, delays, and bankruptcy. Our challenge is to grow with the industry as it matures as well as find solutions that work for small and large farms while still staying afloat when delays come into play. We have also had to deal with rising interest costs and inflation. 

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What is unique about Hamill APS compared to competitors?

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What makes Hamill APS unique is our harvester! We also recognize that each farm has its own way of growing products, and so we pride ourselves on being adaptable. We can customize and modify our equipment to meet the specific needs of each farm. In the industry, we have learned that many farms require modifications or integration into pre-existing equipment, and we have the skills and knowledge to do this with our team. Another unique feature is our cutting mechanism and custom designed blade that allows growers to harvest a tray every 3 seconds with precision. The blade height is adjustable to maximize the yield.

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We have many features that ensure minimal product loss and together these features make our harvester extremely attractive from an ROI perspective. Another advantage is the quality of workmanship. We design and build our equipment here in our own shops. We understand the importance of safety and quality and are motivated to continue building the best harvesting equipment in the industry. 

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What are some other relevant metrics of the company (growing area size, production quantity, team size, etc.)?

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Our team is small but highly skilled and knowledgeable. Quality and customer service is extremely important to our team. Between our two sites and 13,000 sq / ft of operating space, we design, fabricate, manufacture, and assemble every piece of equipment before we test and ship to our customers. We also have spare parts on hand to ensure our customers are up and running as fast as possible when needed. We are currently doing $3M per year in revenue. 

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What are some goals in 2024 and beyond for Hamill APS? 

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We are always striving to stay competitive and improve our equipment’s harvesting and safety features as well as incorporating the latest technology and industry advancements. We are also continuing to develop tray washers of assorted sizes.

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How can people connect with you or learn more about Hamill APS?

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People can connect with Hamill through our website www.hamillaps.com or our social media channels. We are on Facebook, YouTube, and LinkedIn. We also welcome and encourage anyone interested in learning more to call or email us. We would love to hear more about what you’re up to!

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