Study to review automation opportunities within the avocado production system (AV22002)

This project addressed the concerns of Australian avocado growers regarding the adoption of new automation technologies. By reviewing current management strategies and evaluating available automation technologies across the industry, the project identified specific areas where automation could improve efficiency and reduce costs for growers.  

Challenge  

The Australian avocado industry is projected to experience significant growth in both value and production volume over the next five years. However, with supply outpacing demand, growers face the challenge of remaining profitable. Enhancing efficiencies through optimal labour use and technology adoption offers a potential solution. However, many avocado growers remain skeptical about the current automation technologies available, questioning their ability to deliver sufficient benefits to justify the investment. Financial and business-related risks further complicate the adoption of new  technologies.  

Response  

The project undertook a comprehensive review of current avocado grower management practices to identify areas of greatest opportunity for efficiency and productivity improvements, including the potential integration of automation.  

Through surveys and in-field time and motion data collection, the project determined the areas within the production system – primarily in-field through to harvest- where labour dependency and cost are highest. This data collection covered a range of production scales, locations and management systems to ensure insights were applicable to the broad Australian avocado industry.  

An online survey, open to all Australian avocado growers was conducted to pinpoint areas for automation, supplemented by detailed interviews with twelve growers to explore these areas more thoroughly.  Additionally, the project team reviewed existing and emerging technologies to identify automation options with the greatest potential for labour use efficiency. 

The data collected during the project was formalised in a feasibility report, presenting findings to growers to inform opportunities for future investments.  

Benefit 

The project successfully identified areas where technological and process improvements could reduce costs and enhance labour use efficiency for avocado growers. The resulting recommendations offer a clear path for the Australian avocado industry to adopt automation technologies, leading to improved profitability, efficiency, and sustainability. These advancements are expected to bolster the industry’s global competitiveness.