FIRA USA 2027 moves to Florida, highlighting specialty crop automation
FIRA USA will move to Florida in 2027, bringing agricultural robotics demonstrations and technology discussions to the Southeast following its 2026 event in Yakima, Washington.
The announcement was made Oct. 21 during FIRA USA 2026. The 2027 event will be organized by GOFAR, the Global Organisation for Agricultural Robotics, in partnership with the University of Florida’s Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences (UF/IFAS) Institute for Agricultural Innovation.
The move marks another geographic shift for the traveling agricultural robotics event, which was held in California from 2022 to 2025 before moving to Washington in 2026.
“We don’t believe innovation should wait for farmers to come to it. We believe innovation must go where it is needed,” said Aymeric Barthes, president of GOFAR.
Florida offers opportunities for agricultural automation
Florida’s diverse agricultural industry presents opportunities for robotics and precision agriculture technologies, particularly as growers face rising labor and production costs.
According to GOFAR, Florida’s nursery and floriculture sector generates approximately $2.8 billion across 85,000 acres, while vegetable production accounts for $1.9 billion across 275,000 acres.
The state’s berry industry also presents opportunities for automation, with production valued at approximately $510 million across 200,000 acres, according to figures provided by event organizers.
Growers throughout Florida and the Southeast face challenges related to labor availability, pest management, regulatory requirements, rising input costs and technology integration.
GOFAR identified Florida’s agricultural equipment dealerships, manufacturing capacity, technology sector and government support as additional factors that could help accelerate the adoption of agricultural robotics.
Event to focus on specialty crop production
FIRA USA 2027 will emphasize automation opportunities in berry, orchard and vegetable production.
The event will bring together growers, agricultural equipment dealers, technology developers, manufacturers and other industry stakeholders to explore practical applications of robotics and precision agriculture.
GOFAR’s approach extends beyond equipment demonstrations, with the organization working to connect technology developers with growers and establish long-term relationships that support adoption.
“Our events last a few days. Our mission lasts all year long,” Barthes said. “FIRA travels, but GOFAR stays connected.”
Founded in 2016, FIRA has expanded into an international agricultural robotics network active on three continents. Its events provide opportunities for growers to evaluate emerging technologies and connect directly with manufacturers and developers.
The University of Florida’s UF/IFAS Institute for Agricultural Innovation will host the 2027 edition, supporting efforts to advance agricultural technology development and adoption throughout Florida and the Southeast.
Dates, programming, field demonstrations and exhibitor participation details for FIRA USA 2027 will be announced in the coming months.