Prinzen Potatoes 1-2:

“Optimal preparation for the next generation”

In the east of The Netherlands, a stone’s throw from the German border, the Prinzen family has been growing potatoes for nearly a century. It’s a true family farm where three generations work side by side during the busiest time of the year. “It really runs like a well-oiled machine here,” says Anno Prinzen. “During high season, we work in two shifts – seventeen hours a day – to process 360 hectares of potatoes and 30 hectares of onions.”

At Prinzen, communication is direct and dedication is strong. Grandfather Dick (90) still prepares the canteen every morning, while granddaughter Bhodi combines her Agri Food Business Administration studies with hands-on work on the farm. She’ll take over the business one day. “It’s hard work,” says Anno, “but it’s the best job in the world!”

The ambition

To manage such a large acreage efficiently, the family is continuously looking for smarter solutions. Labour is scarce, energy is expensive, and sustainability considerations are more demanding than ever. Anno explains: “You have to make the work simpler and more efficient — otherwise it’s not sustainable in the long run. Especially if you want your daughter to inherit a future-proof business.”

The challenge

For many years, potato sorting was both labour- and energy-intensive. Before sorting, the potatoes were traditionally warmed up — an expensive step that also produced unnecessary emissions. On top of that, the box logistics required many manual actions and forklift movements. At peak times, the farm employed up to fifteen people, creating stress and dependency on seasonal workers.

The solution

Together with VHM, the Prinzen family chose a fully automated system that transformed the process radically. At the heart of the setup is the fully automatic VHM Modular Box Filling Station – a line that fills boxes by weight, stacks and unstacks automatically, and can process up to 600 tonnes of potatoes per day.

Thanks to this system, the box logistics became far more streamlined and efficient: two full boxes in, two full boxes out. Large bunkers and unnecessary forklift movements are now a thing of the past. The result? Lower costs, increased safety, fewer emissions, and a much calmer workflow. One operator and one forklift driver can manage the entire line.

Best of all, the potatoes can now be processed directly in their natural, cool condition. The system is extremely product-friendly, with minimal drop heights and fewer transitions. No extra steps are needed – the line is logically and efficiently designed. Exactly the kind of approach VHM strives for every day.

Strong roots, smart automation

At Prinzen Potatoes in Aalten, a new state-of-the-art sorting line is now running on the principle: full boxes in, full boxes out. And believe us: it looks impressive! Curious to see the results. View here.

Also check out these customer case studies:

View All