Future Farming Program
Working together towards more sustainable potato cultivation
Farmers are facing major challenges: climate change, extreme weather conditions, and shifting regulations all demand a new approach. That’s why Farm Frites is working closely with growers to invest in regenerative agriculture – a method of farming that improves soil health, boosts biodiversity, and strengthens the resilience of the agricultural system.
In 2023, we developed the Future Farming Program, which was launched in 2024 to support this transition. The initial results provide a strong foundation for further expansion in the Netherlands and beyond.
Regenerative agriculture
Regenerative agriculture focuses on restoring, improving, and strengthening soil health, biodiversity, water quality, and the farming system as a whole. Rather than depleting natural resources, it’s about building resilience and enhancing the ecosystems we work within. In doing so, we’re contributing to a more sustainable and future-proof food system.
The Future Farming Program
To support farmers in the transition to regenerative practices, Farm Frites has developed the Future Farming Program. This value chain initiative supports growers step by step, with tailored improvement plans and practical measures adapted to each farm and plot. In collaboration with knowledge partners, we provide ongoing support and advice throughout the growing season.
Progress is tracked using objective indicators, brought together in a Future Farming Score. This score highlights areas for improvement, encourages further development, and forms the basis for rewards based on effort and impact.
Experiences and insights from 2024
In 2024, we began with a group of 30 farmers in the southwest of the Netherlands. Together with our own specialists and CropSolutions partners, they created tailored improvement plans. Through farm visits and group meetings, knowledge and experiences were shared, after which the farmers implemented measures suited to their own operations.
This approach led to tangible steps towards regenerative agriculture and increased awareness of the importance of soil health. Most participants reached the ‘engaging’ level within our programme, a clear sign of their commitment and motivation.
Expansion in 2025
In 2025, the programme includes 80 Dutch farmers. Of these, 50 are new to the programme and receive support in developing new improvement plans and implementing regenerative measures.
The 30 farmers who participated in 2024 will take part in a pilot project where their progress will be assessed using the Future Farming Score. This score will help make their efforts visible and encourage further development within the programme.
Starting in 2025, demonstration farms will be established to assess and apply regenerative agricultural practices in practice. These sites will trial both short- and long-term measures, and share insights gained through real-life application. Participating farmers will be actively involved through farm visits and knowledge-sharing sessions.
International rollout
The Future Farming Program isn’t limited to the Netherlands. We’ve already launched it in Poland, and preparations are in progress for rollout in Belgium, Germany and France. The challenges faced by growers are similar across countries, and by sharing knowledge internationally, we can support farmers throughout Europe in the transition to more resilient and future-proof cultivation.
Building a sustainable potato supply chain together
The shift to regenerative agriculture requires collaboration. By supporting growers with knowledge, practical experience and guidance, we make sustainable farming achievable and actionable. This programme is designed to help farmers transition to regenerative agriculture and is supported by partners across the value chain.
Together, we’re building a future-proof potato supply chain – from field to plate.
