#United States #Manchester #Indoor Farming #Little Leaf Farms #Tennessee Greens

Little Leaf Farms Expands Production with New Tennessee Campus

Little Leaf Farms, the top indoor-grown salad producer in the United States, is embarking on an exciting new journey with the announcement of a new campus in Tennessee. This large-scale facility, which will span 215 acres in Manchester, is set to significantly increase the company's production capabilities and reinforce its position as a leader in the rapidly growing field of controlled environment agriculture (CEA).

A Strategic Location for Sustainable Growth

The new campus is designed to encompass an initial 40 acres of greenhouses, with the potential for expansion to 80 acres in the future. This growth is backed by robust financing, allowing construction to commence this summer, with an anticipated start of operations in Fall 2026. Once operational, the Tennessee facility is projected to produce enough leafy greens to serve regions including the Midwest, Southeast, and Texas, tapping into a wider market and significantly enhancing food security in these areas.

In a competitive agricultural landscape, Little Leaf Farms stands out with over 50% of the market share for indoor-grown lettuce in the U.S. This expansion not only aims to meet rising consumer demand but also reflects a bigger commitment to sustainable practices in the food industry.

Responding to Consumer Preferences

Paul Sellew, the Founder and CEO of Little Leaf Farms, emphasized the growing consumer preference for fresh, flavorful greens over traditionally field-grown alternatives. He stated, "This new campus is a testament to our belief in and commitment to the promising future of indoor-grown leafy greens. Strong consumer demand allows us to invest confidently, and we're grateful to our partners in Tennessee for supporting this next chapter."

Indeed, Little Leaf Farms has made a name for itself by focusing on the quality and sustainability of its produce. The company's commitment to environmentally friendly practices involves the use of advanced greenhouse technologies that ensure efficient use of resources. These include capturing rainwater and utilizing natural sunlight, which allows Little Leaf Farms to grow healthful, pesticide-free greens all year round.

Economic Impact on Tennessee

Local leaders have welcomed the expansion, recognizing the potential job creation and economic growth it will foster in the state. Tennessee Governor Bill Lee remarked, "Agriculture is the backbone of Tennessee's economy, supporting tens of thousands of jobs and driving growth in our rural communities. We're proud to welcome Little Leaf Farms to our state."

Joey Hobbs, Mayor of Manchester, expressed pride in the partnership with Little Leaf Farms. He highlighted that the new facility will not only catalyze job growth but also signify a commitment to innovation in Tennessee's agricultural sector.

Celebrating a Decade of Success

This announcement marks a decade of remarkable growth for Little Leaf Farms, which has steadily expanded since its inception. The company already operates successful campuses in Massachusetts and Pennsylvania, which is recognized as the largest leafy greens facility in North America. With over 7,000 grocery stores as clients, Little Leaf Farms is positioned to reach more than half of the U.S. population, further extending its influence in the market.

"When we launched Little Leaf Farms ten years ago, our mission was clear: transforming our food system by growing better food in a better way," Sellew explained. The company plans to keep this mission at the forefront, as it expands into Tennessee, delivering fresher and tastier leafy greens to an expanding consumer base.

As more consumers seek out sustainable and health-conscious food options, the new Little Leaf Farms campus serves as a vital step toward meeting these needs while reinforcing the importance of agriculture in local economies.

For more information regarding Little Leaf Farms and their initiatives, visit their official website at littleleaffarms.com.