Key Takeaways:
- Robust Investment: Oishii (Profile), a pioneering U.S. startup with Japanese origins, has secured $134 million from 19 investors, including Nippon Telegraph and Telephone, as reported by Nikkei Asia.
- Innovative Agricultural Solutions: Leveraging Japanese agricultural technology, Oishii specializes in growing premium, pesticide-free Japanese strawberry varieties and cherry tomatoes in U.S. indoor farms.
- Sustainable Expansion Efforts: The new funding will facilitate the construction of an advanced indoor farming facility in New Jersey, aimed at significantly scaling product supply, detailed by AgFunder News.
- Quality Over Quantity: Emphasizing superior taste and sustainability, Oishii challenges conventional vertical farming models by prioritizing product quality and environmental responsibility.
Bridging Innovation and Tradition in Agriculture
Founded in 2016 and led by CEO Hiroki Koga, Oishii has carved a niche in the agricultural technology sector by adopting Japanese farming innovations to produce premium strawberries and cherry tomatoes in pesticide-free indoor farms. This practice has not only garnered a following among high-end New York restaurants but has also paved the way for the brand’s expansion into luxury grocery outlets, selling at approximately $11 for a pack of six strawberries.
A Visionary Approach to Farming
The announcement of the $134 million funding, as highlighted by Nikkei Asia, underscores the significant investor confidence in Oishii’s revolutionary approach to indoor farming. The forthcoming state-of-the-art facility in New Jersey is anticipated to incorporate on-site power generation, water recycling, and advanced robotics and AI to automate farming operations, from seed to harvest.
Strategic Collaborations and Sustainable Goals
Among the investors, NTT stands out not only for likely being the lead investor but also for its vested interest in indoor farming research. This collaboration aims to leverage technological advancements for more efficient and effective farming methodologies. Furthermore, partnerships with companies like Yaskawa Electric to develop automation systems reflect a concerted effort towards full automation of farming tasks within the next decade, as reported by AgFunder News.
Expanding Horizons and Cultivating Excellence
The funding round, which includes a diverse group of investors from Japan, Taiwan, the UK, and China, signifies a global belief in Oishii’s mission and its impact on the future of agriculture. The focus remains on expanding the spectral library to include more crops, thereby enhancing food security and promoting sustainable farming practices worldwide.
Oishii Latest News
Introduction of the Oishii Rubī Tomato (2023/12/07)
Oishii has introduced the Rubī Tomato, a unique addition to the produce market. Cultivated in indoor vertical farms in New Jersey, this tomato has a bright red, shiny skin and a juicy center with a unique sweetness. It is available exclusively at Whole Foods in Jersey City. Oishii encourages consumers to share their experiences and thoughts about this new product.
Oishii Introduces New “Koyo Berry” Variety (2023/02/24)
Vertical farming leader Oishii has launched its newest varietal, The Koyo Berry, which is grown hyper-locally in state-of-the-art indoor vertical farms. The Koyo Berry is the second strawberry from Oishii, following the Omakase Berry, and offers a unique flavor profile. The berry is a Japanese cultivar traditionally grown outside Tokyo during winter, characterized by its refreshing sweetness, balanced acidity, fragrant aroma, and slightly firm texture.
Oishii Opens Largest Strawberry Vertical Farm (2023/05/20)
Vertical farming leader Oishii has opened its largest and most advanced farm yet in Jersey City, New Jersey, to grow the company’s famed Omakase Berries exclusively. The new farm was repurposed from a former Anheuser-Busch factory, and each harvest relies on advanced robotics and automation, using 60% less energy and 40% less water. Oishii is expanding its retail footprint to meet the growing demand for its strawberries, which will be available at Whole Foods Market stores. The company is also developing new strawberry varieties and other types of produce.
Photo by Gavin Tyte on Unsplash
