In 2017, Mucci Farms started constructing a 24-acre greenhouse block in Huron, Ohio. This was the company's first expansion outside Canada, and in the spring of 2018, the first tomatoes on the vine were harvested. "Initially, the facility was exclusively growing tomatoes on the vine," says Steve Zaccardi, Senior Director of Sales with Mucci Farms. "However, as expansion continued and we got a better feel for the market, we added Mini Cucumbers, our award-winning CutecumberTM Poppers, and Sun DropsTM sweet grape tomatoes to our USA Grown program."
The initial project was scheduled to be three phases of 24-acre builds each. Phase one started in 2017, and the final piece was completed in 2021. "This calendar year marked the first full season of harvesting without construction," Zaccardi commented. Today, Mucci Farms' total acreage in Ohio is 75, including three greenhouses and a 272,000-square-foot warehouse facility. "We continue to grow multiple varieties of tomatoes, including snacking tomatoes and specialty cucumbers." These products are also grown at the company's greenhouses in Ontario, Canada. In addition, the Canadian location grows peppers, lettuce, strawberries, and a variety of specialty items.
Expansion driven by demand for locally grown
In both Canada and the United States, Mucci Farms consistently sees increases in demand for locally grown products. "As a result, we are always looking for strategic expansions to increase local access to consumers across the continent. Our expansion into Ohio is an example. This location was chosen strategically as it helped us in getting better access to retailers and consumers in the US while providing them with locally grown products. Our proximity to the market and avoiding a border crossing has improved our opportunity to offer fresh, flavorful products with maximum shelf life." Another benefit of being close to consumer centers is reducing food miles. "As an organization committed to reducing our environmental impact, building more facilities helps us reduce food miles and our carbon footprint." Last but not least, the Huron location is beneficial as it offers the ability to grow through the winter months for a total of 365 days per year. The entire facility has been equipped with High Powered Sodium (HPS) lighting.
Expectations for 2023
Most recently, a 32-acre bell pepper expansion was completed in Kingsville, Ontario. "We are looking forward to keeping that momentum going, and in 2023, we will be building on that success with an additional 90 acres being added to our Bell Pepper program," shared Zaccardi. There will be more announcements next year regarding Mucci's growth, and the company is looking forward to sharing it with the world.
For more information:
Ajit Saxena
Mucci Farms
Tel: (+1) 519-326-8881
asaxena@muccifarms.com
www.muccifarms.com