Little Leaf Farms continues expansion with Tennessee project

With the latest expansion, only recently completed in McAdoo, Pennsylvania, Little Leaf Farms is moving forward with another facility. The company recently announced the start of construction on a new state-of-the-art greenhouse facility in Tennessee, covering more than 8 hectares, which equals 20 acres. The project continues Little Leaf Farms' phased expansion strategy across the United States, with VB once again serving as its greenhouse technology partner.

Site selection and scale
The Manchester, Tennessee site, located on a 215-acre plot, is initially planned for 40 acres of greenhouse structures, with the option to expand to 80 acres. According to Little Leaf Farms, the site was selected to improve distribution efficiency to the Midwest, Southeast, and Texas markets. "We have seen strong consumer demand for our fresh leafy greens, and we look forward to bringing them to many more households throughout the US. Our greenhouse in Tennessee will increase our capacity to deliver our products to the Midwest, Southeast, and Texas," said Paul Sellew, CEO of Little Leaf Farms.

Greenhouse design and technology
Since the beginning of 2015, Little Leaf Farms has worked with VB to construct all of its state-of-the-art greenhouses. "We have trusted VB as the industry and greenhouse technology has evolved, and look forward to partnering with them again on our Tennessee greenhouse," said Paul Sellew, CEO of Little Leaf Farms. "Allowing us to sustainably grow the freshest and best-tasting leafy greens possible."

Edward Verbakel, CEO of VB, emphasized the strength of this partnership: "Together, we are not only building greenhouses, but also a foundation of trust. Every new phase builds upon the lessons learned and innovations developed over the years."

The Tennessee greenhouse incorporates the same improved advanced technology successfully used in the MacAdoo, Pennsylvania project, further refined to optimize climate control and energy efficiency. Developments from previous phases have been integrated into the new design to achieve optimal growing conditions. Sustainability remains a shared priority. "The project aligns with the CO₂ Performance Ladder, demonstrating our commitment to reducing carbon impact during design, transport, and construction", Edward explains.

Full range of lettuce varieties
At the Tennessee site, Little Leaf Farms will grow its full range of lettuce varieties, including the best-selling Baby Crispy Green Leaf and Sweet Baby Butter Leaf, and will also pack and ship salad kits directly from the new location. "We are always on the lookout for sites that allow us to further expand our distribution and meet consumer demand for our leafy greens."

The facility is expected to create several hundred new jobs in the region, and Paul emphasizes to have enjoyed incredible support from the local government and community partners in Tennessee on this expansion.