Potato Handling, Grading & Optical Sorting Solutions
About
DOWNS is a long-established manufacturer specializing in potato, onion and root crop handling, grading, storage and sorting equipment for agricultural producers and processors around the world.
With roots dating back to 1860 and a strong presence in Europe, DOWNS combines decades of mechanisation experience with modern technology to deliver reliable, high-performance solutions for post-harvest operations.
Founded by Edward Walter Downs in England in 1860 to support emerging mechanised potato farming, DOWNS quickly became known for innovative and durable equipment — from early automatic box fillers to modern grading lines. In 1981, its partnership with the French Dubrulle group laid the foundation for a production facility in Sainte-Marie-Cappel, France, where the company designs and manufactures a broad range of reception, handling, sorting and storage equipment for potatoes, onions and other crops. Today, DOWNS products are sold in over 25 countries across five continents, backed by a global dealer network and dedicated customer service.
Offerings
DOWNS supplies a comprehensive portfolio of agricultural machinery and systems, including:
Receiving and handling equipment - hoppers, conveyors and elevators for initial crop intake
Grading and sizing machines - mechanical and screen graders for potatoes, onions and carrots
Optical sorting systems - advanced AI-driven
Bulk handling solutions
Box fillers, tippers and packing support equipment
DOWNS CropVision®
One of DOWNS’ standout technologies is the CropVision® optical sorter, a next-generation system designed for qualitative sorting of unwashed potatoes before storage.
Fitted with industrial cameras and a patented artificial intelligence algorithm, CropVision performs a 360° surface analysis of each potato, enabling precise classification by quality - separating clods, stones and waste from good product, green, cut, spoiled or malformed tubers. It offers high throughput (up to ~100 t/h) and three product exits so material can be routed to the appropriate output based on quality criteria. The system is easy to use via touchscreen interfaces and integrates with DOWNS receiving hoppers and grading lines.
CropVision solves common pre-storage challenges such as labor availability, sorting consistency, storage quality and processing efficiency, making it a valuable solution for commercial potato growers and packhouses seeking automation and optimization.
Why DOWNS
DOWNS brings over 160 years of agricultural mechanisation expertise and cutting-edge technology — including AI-driven optical sorting — to deliver reliable, full-workflow post-harvest solutions.
Deep industry heritage and innovation, with roots in agricultural mechanization since the 19th century.
Advanced technology offerings, including AI-based optical sorting and modular grading systems.
Broad product range supporting the full post-harvest workflow from field intake to storage.
Global support with service teams that ensures intime and technical assistance.
Optimize Your Post-Harvest Operations with DOWNS
From field intake to storage, DOWNS equipment is built to handle your crop with precision and reliability. Get in touch to find the right grading, handling, or sorting solution for your operation.