Kubota Corporation has made an additional investment in French startup UV Boosting, through its European holding company Kubota Holdings Europe (KHE). Through this additional investment, Kubota will further strengthen its collaboration with UV Boosting.
In Europe, there is a strong demand for the introduction of technologies that contribute to reducing environmental impact and achieving sustainable growth, including solutions that reduce the use of chemical pesticides. Recognizing this need, Kubota invested in UV Boosting in 2024 and has since conducted demonstration trials through collaboration with the company. In addition, Kubota has commenced full-scale sales of UV Boostingʼs products through its sales network this year.
To further strengthen its collaboration with UV Boosting in Europe, Kubota has made an additional investment through KHE in the company. Through the further expansion of UV Boostingʼs product, Kubota aims to accelerate business growth, contribute to solving challenges faced by agricultural producers, such as disease control and environmental impact reduction and promote the realization of sustainable agriculture.
UV Boostingʼs UV flash technology uses short-wavelength UV light to stimulate plant leaves, promoting the secretion of salicylic acid and other plant hormones that enhance plants’ natural resistance to pathogens. This highly versatile solution is applicable to a wide range of crops, including wine grapes, fruit trees, and vegetables, and is expected to provide benefits such as disease suppression, reduced pesticide use, and improved resilience to environmental stresses such as frost and drought. In particular, the technology is expected to be highly effective in vineyards and fruit cultivation. Field trials conducted by independent third-party organizations have confirmed a 40% reduction in disease incidence and a 13% increase in yield in vineyards.
