Episode 37: Move Over Henry Ford; Aaron Pannell revolutionizes oyster farming

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In this episode of OYSTER-ology, Kevin talks to Aaron Pinnell, the innovative mind behind FlipFarm, his semi-automated oyster farming system which is changing the way oysters are grown. Aaron shares his journey from sheep and dairy farming to aquaculture, detailing how a serendipitous encounter led him to oyster farming. He discusses the creation of Marlboro Oysters with his wife, Debbie Pannell, and their development of a revolutionary oyster farming system that enhances efficiency and productivity. Aaron explains the unique features of FlipFarm, including the specialized machinery and how it is transforming the oyster industry globally. The conversation highlights the challenges and successes of implementing the system, its impact on the oyster quality, and the future potential for scalability and international expansion.

00:00 Introduction to Flip Farm

00:20 Meet Aaron Pinnell: The Man Behind Marlboro Oysters

01:35 Aaron's Journey from Sheep to Oysters

06:38 The Birth of Marlboro Oysters

12:14 Challenges and Innovations in Oyster Farming

16:09 The Eureka Moment: Birth of Flip Farm

20:07 Developing the Flip Farm System

24:08 Understanding Flip Farm Line Lengths and Spacing

25:53 Innovative Loading and Unloading Efficiencies

28:08 Sorting and Grading Oysters on the Water

29:19 Revolutionizing Oyster Farming with Flip Farm

31:31 Adapting to Challenges and Continuous Improvement

32:50 Global Expansion and Scalability

33:10 Handling Storms and Site Considerations

34:22 Flip Farm's Versatility in Different Environments

35:59 The Journey of Developing Flip Farm

39:00 Team Dynamics and Growth

41:10 Work-Life Balance and Retention

41:49 Investment and Adoption of Flip Farm System

42:59 Scalability and Contracting Opportunities

45:14 Quality and Consistency of Oysters

48:30 Global Adoption and Future Prospects

50:17 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

Links:

https://www.flipfarm.co.nz/ (FlipFarm website)

https://cdn.slp.nz/flipfarmtour/ First FlipFarm farm tour videos (a must-see)

https://www.marlboroughoysters.co.nz/ (Marlborough Oysters website)

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