Berendina empowers Estate community by providing automated tea leaves plucking machine

Berendina has initiated a novel project of providing automated tea leaf plucking machines to empower the estate community. In an initial rollout, Berendina has distributed 32 of these innovative machines to workers in Fordyce Estate, Dunkeld Estate and Paharmeston Estate in the Nuwara Eliya District.

Operated by rechargeable batteries, these machines boast a remarkable capability to function for two full days on a single charge. The implementation of these allow each worker to double their average daily harvest from 25 kg to an impressive 50 kg or more. Beyond the immediate increase in productivity, this initiative addresses the prevalent issue of labor shortages in the estate sector.

The lightweight design of the machines offers added benefits, making them accessible and user-friendly for female workers in any environmental setting. This not only contributes to an upswing in daily income for workers but also minimizes discoloration of fingernails – a common issue faced in traditional harvesting methods. Furthermore, the incorporation of technology in tea leaf plucking is expected to resonate with the younger generation, fostering interest and participation in the estate sector.