Robotics Plus

Based in Tauranga, New Zealand, Robotics Plus is a developer of robotic and automation solutions for the global agriculture, horticulture, and forestry industries. The company was founded in 2013, although some sources state 2008, through a partnership between Steve Saunders, an agricultural expert, and Dr. Alistair Scarfe, a technology expert with a PhD in industrial automation. This collaboration aimed to address the significant challenge of labor shortages in horticulture by introducing advanced robotic systems. Saunders brought deep industry knowledge from his role as Managing Director of Plus Group Horticulture, while Dr. Scarfe provided the engineering and automation expertise.

Robotics Plus develops and manufactures a range of autonomous and robotic systems designed to handle critical, labor-intensive tasks. One of its flagship products is the Prospr, an autonomous, multi-use Unmanned Ground Vehicle (UGV). This modular platform is engineered to perform various tasks in orchards and vineyards, such as spraying, weed control, and mowing, by swapping different tools. Another key product is the Āporo Fruit Packer, a robotic system that uses machine learning and vision systems to orient and place up to 120 apples per minute into trays, a task equivalent to two human workers. The company has also developed a robotic log scaler that improves the accuracy and safety of measuring timber volume at ports. The business model includes direct sales of its machinery and a royalty-based model where clients pay per unit processed, such as per ton of logs scanned. This approach fosters ongoing partnership and reinvestment into technology development.

The company's journey began in a small shed in one of New Zealand's core agricultural regions, which provided a real-world testing ground and direct feedback from farmers. A significant milestone occurred in 2018 when Yamaha Motor Co. invested US$10 million, initiating a strategic partnership that provided capital and access to Yamaha's extensive manufacturing and engineering expertise. This collaboration was pivotal for scaling operations and accelerating product development. In February 2025, Yamaha Motor fully acquired Robotics Plus, making it the foundation of the newly launched U.S.-based company, Yamaha Agriculture. This acquisition aims to leverage Robotics Plus's technology to boost manufacturing and expand its market presence, particularly in North America. The company's revenue was estimated at $13.5 million in 2024.

Keywords: agricultural robotics, horticultural automation, unmanned ground vehicles, robotic fruit packer, agritech, autonomous farm equipment, precision agriculture, crop spraying robotics, vineyard automation, orchard technology, Steve Saunders, Alistair Scarfe, Yamaha Agriculture, Prospr UGV, Āporo Fruit Packer, smart farming, robotic harvesting, log scaling, farm labor solutions, modular robotics, New Zealand agritech