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BrightFarms Expands Operations in Georgia

BrightFarms, an industry pioneer in indoor farming, has officially begun shipping produce from its new greenhouse facility located in Macon, Georgia, which opened its doors in late 2024. This state-of-the-art facility measures an impressive 1.5 million square feet and is a significant step forward in broadening access to fresh, locally grown greens in the southeastern U.S.

The inauguration of this greenhouse marks BrightFarms' third expansion within just half a year, following the successful launches of similar high-tech plants in Lorena, Texas, and Yorkville, Illinois. The new facility will serve as a continuing link between local communities and fresh food, ensuring that top-quality produce reaches consumers in a timely manner. Upon reaching full operational capacity, the greenhouse is expected to generate over 250 jobs, providing competitive benefits from the outset.

Abby Prior, the Chief Commercial Officer of BrightFarms, shared her enthusiasm, stating, “We’re thrilled to have started shipping from our first greenhouse in Georgia, expanding access to our pesticide-free leafy greens across the country. The Southeast is one of the fastest-growing markets for indoor-grown greens, and this facility helps us meet rising demand.” BrightFarms is also excited about its involvement in the Georgia Grown program, helping to bolster local agriculture and stimulate the state’s economy.

Cutting-Edge Technology in Farming

Highlighting the emphasis on technology, BrightFarms uses Green Automation’s advanced lettuce growing systems combined with Kubo’s ultra-clima technology. These innovations ensure optimal growing conditions throughout the year, allowing for a steady production of high-quality greens. The facility is designed to minimize the time between harvest and delivery; greens can reach retail locations in approximately 24 hours post-harvest, emphasizing freshness and reducing the carbon footprint associated with transportation.

Now boasting three major greenhouse hubs in operation, BrightFarms is in a position to provide fresh greens to about two-thirds of the American population. However, in tandem with this expansion, the company announced it will wind down operations at some of its early-stage facilities, including those in Selinsgrove, Pennsylvania and Rochelle, Illinois, as it prioritizes the scale and efficiency of its new centers.

Mayor Lester Miller of Macon welcomed BrightFarms with enthusiasm, calling it a significant boon for the local economy. He noted that this facility symbolizes progress for resident health and well-being not just today, but well into the future.

The Mission Behind the Expansion

Cox Enterprises, which operates BrightFarms, is committed to creating sustainable practices within agriculture and fostering community growth. The Macon greenhouse is home to the inaugural Cox Farms Discovery Center, a facility meant to educate and train the next generation of agricultural workers. It also serves as a resource for supporting retailers while fulfilling the mission of providing accessible fresh produce.

Steve Bradley, President of Cox Farms, stated, “Through Cox Enterprises, we’ve been proud to call Georgia home since 1939. Our deep commitment to the state is reflected in our investments across industries. With the new Macon greenhouse, we are bringing the promise of fresh food to our home state, ensuring a vibrant future for agriculture and community development.”

In an admirable move towards combating food insecurity, Cox Farms recently partnered with Feeding America. This initiative will deliver fresh products from its greenhouses to food banks across the U.S. and Canada, focusing particularly on local entities in Georgia like the Middle Georgia Community Food Bank to ensure fresh produce is accessible to those in need.

BrightFarms continues to lead the way in indoor agriculture, revolutionizing how produce is grown and distributed. Their hydroponic farms significantly reduce the time, distance, and complexity of the food supply chain. The company’s innovative approach results in a sustainable model that utilizes less land and water while producing high-yield crops. BrightFarms products, from various greens to salad kits, are now available in over 6,300 retail outlets across much of the U.S., showcasing their growth and commitment to changing food production dynamics.

For more detailed information, visit BrightFarms.