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HAWE Mobile Container System Supports next-generation research facilities at the John Innes Centre
As part of a project commissioned by Brinkman UK, HAWE was selected to deliver the Mobile Container System for the John Innes Centre. Brinkman UK has been a trusted supplier to the John Innes Centre for over ten years, supporting the institute with major infrastructure investments as well as biocontrol solutions. Drawing on this long-standing collaboration, the John Innes Centre asked Brinkman UK to propose a solution for its new research facilities. Brinkman UK subsequently identified HAWE as the right partner for this opportunity and invited them to participate in the project.
Investment in future-proof research facilities
The John Innes Centre, one of the world’s leading institutes for plant science, genetics and microbiology, has selected the HAWE Mobile Container System as part of a major renewal of its research facilities. The investment supports the institute’s long-term ambition to advance sustainable food production and address global challenges related to climate and health.
More efficient and controlled cultivation process
HAWE Mobile Container System will support this mission by offering a cleaner, more precise, and more efficient growing process. Plants should move to the workers, not the other way around. The system uses lightweight aluminum frames that function as mobile containers. These containers travel across the facility on rails and an adjustable support structure, creating a controlled workflow with clear separation between growing and handling activities.
Designed for research environments
For research environments, this level of control is essential. Each container operates at working height, which improves ergonomics for staff and ensures consistent handling conditions throughout the growth cycle. The elevated position also supports better airflow and microclimate management around the crop. With project-specific inserts, the system can be tailored to different plant species, research methods and climate requirements.
Part of the Next Generation Infrastructure program
The investment is part of the Next Generation Infrastructure programme at the Norwich Research Park campus. Supported through the UKRI Infrastructure Fund, the programme will deliver a modern and climate neutral research environment in the coming years. New facilities will include the New Main Laboratory Building that will be net carbon ready according to British building standards.
Scientific mission of the John Innes Centre
The John Innes Centre has been a cornerstone in plant and microbial science since its founding in 1910. The institute's Healthy Plants, Healthy People, Healthy Planet (HP3) vision aims to address three critical, global challenges: food security and sustainable agriculture, nutrition and health, and the climate crisis.
Reliability and repeatability in research
The HAWE Mobile Container System will support this mission by offering a cleaner, more precise and more efficient growing process. It brings labour efficiency and technical reliability to a research environment where accuracy is crucial. The system enables predictable workflows and supports studies that require stable and repeatable growing conditions.
Partnership for high-quality research
With the installation of the Mobile Container System, HAWE strengthens its role as a partner for high-level research facilities. The collaboration reflects a shared commitment to innovation and sustainable production for a growing world.