Acrobat takes flight

Al founded Acrobat, with a vision to couple any computer with the best power and control equipment available. Independence for Al and independence for his customers.

In 2018, Al's son Mark joined the company. Mark, who is a Master Electrician, has spent many years as a project manager, installing electrical control systems in greenhouses. 

In 2020, Mark was handed to steer Acrobat, driving the business forward. 

Dutch innovation and growth

After some time outside the horticultural industry and after immigrating to Canada, Al joined the newly established Canadian division of Priva Computers Inc., as a service technician.

Shortly after, Al established a new department, where power and control requirements were integrated with Priva automation. Under Al's leadership, the newly established panel shop flourished.

Technology advances

Al worked as apprentice installer for H.Hoogendoorn BV, an electrical contractor for greenhouses.

Under ownership and management of Henk Hoogendoorn and Gé Bentvelsen the first Hoogendoorn greenhouse computer, TUCO, was introduced.

Greenhouse evolution

The first walk-in, wooden, gutter connected greenhouse was built on the farm. Soon after, the first vent motors were installed with timer control.

Four of Bert's sons continued as growers. Later the next generation of farming has Bert's grandsons carry on the family tradition, as leaders of Royal Pride, which is one of the most innovative and progressive greenhouse company's in the world. Meanwhile, Bert's youngest son Al focused on greenhouse technology.

Home farm

Adelbertus (Bert) van den Ende buys a parcel of farmland in Den Hoorn and begins growing under "Platglas", which were low-level greenhouses with peak height variations from 60 - 120cm