As the world population grows, so does the demand for food, and conventional farming practices are no longer sustainable. This has led to the emergence of alternative methods such as vertical farming. Greene King, one of the UK’s leading pub companies, has partnered with Fischer Farms to provide fresh, high-quality, locally sourced, and sustainable produce using cutting-edge vertical farming technology.
Fischer Farms employs a technique that allows for year-round crop growth in stacked, covered trays with a small land footprint compared to conventional farming. By controlling light, temperature, and irrigation, optimal growing conditions are simulated, resulting in high-quality crops. The company has launched its first farm in Burton-on-Trent, focusing on the cultivation of top-quality leafy greens and herbs.
Greene King has pledged to reduce its greenhouse gas emissions by 50% by 2030 and to achieve net-zero by 2040. The company plans to accomplish this through its partnership with Fischer Farms, which will eliminate the need for imported herbs, reducing air freight and food miles.
Fresh, vertically farmed basil will be added to the menus of 1,600 Greene King managed pubs this month. In the future, the company plans to expand its offerings to include chives, other herbs, as well as leafy greens like lamb’s lettuce and watercress.
In addition to eliminating the need for imported herbs, vertical farming has several other advantages, such as independence from weather fluctuations, disease-free cultivation, and zero pesticide usage, which all help to minimize waste.
This partnership between Greene King and Fischer Farms is a step towards sustainable agriculture and responsible sourcing. As Tristan Fischer, the CEO of Fischer Farms, said, “We are ready to support the food services industry in meeting consumer demand for responsibly sourced produce.”
As consumers become more conscious of the environmental impact of their food choices, it is imperative for companies to adopt sustainable practices. Greene King’s partnership with Fischer Farms is a commendable move towards a more sustainable and responsible food supply chain.
