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Through its acquisition of Crux Agribotics, VDL Groep has further strengthened its position in Foodtech, one of the growth markets for this family-owned industrial company based in Eindhoven. Crux’s ‘smart robot’ uses data and AI (artificial intelligence) to classify, sort and pack fruit and vegetables. In the process, Crux is also contributing to the automation of global fruit and vegetable horticulture. Robotisation is helping growers save on labour costs and reduce food waste. The data generated is also analysed to further optimise the cultivation process. Crux Agribotics is based in Eindhoven and has 60 employees.

For the sake of our security, it is imperative that we rapidly strengthen our armed forces. To this end, investing in the European and Dutch defence industries is crucial. In order to scale up national production capacity, the Dutch Ministry of Defence is leasing a number of production halls from VDL Groep in Born. The lease agreement is being signed today by Minister Brekelmans and VDL President & CEO Van der Leegte.

In line with expectations, 2024 was less successful for VDL Groep than the previous year. Events which had an immediate impact converged: the winding down at VDL Nedcar, headwinds from material shortages and subsequently delayed deliveries of buses, stagnating market developments and increased costs (for wages, energy, interest, legislation). After a poor first six months, operating results showed signs of recovery during the second half of 2024. Excluding the Car Assembly division, annual turnover is the highest ever. Sales are expected to remain the same in 2025, with further recovery of the operating results.