Crop One Holdings

Crop One Holdings operates within the ag-tech sector, focusing on vertical farming to address food security and supply chain challenges. The company designs, constructs, and manages data-driven, controlled-environment indoor farms. This approach allows for the year-round cultivation of produce, independent of climate conditions.

The company's history began with the establishment of its first commercial farm and headquarters in Millis, Massachusetts, in 2015, which has been in continuous operation since. A significant milestone occurred in June 2018 when Crop One entered into a $40 million joint venture with Emirates Flight Catering (EKFC), the catering arm of Emirates airline. This partnership led to the creation of Emirates Crop One (ECO 1) and the construction of what is described as the world's largest vertical farm in Dubai, a facility spanning over 330,000 square feet. Construction on the Dubai facility was slated to start in late 2018, with the first products delivered in late 2019. The ECO 1 facility officially opened in July 2022.

Sonia Lo was a key figure in the company's development, serving as CEO and leading it through the major joint venture with Emirates. Her background includes experience as an investor, a professional chef, and leadership roles at companies like Google. In November 2022, Craig Ratajczyk was appointed CEO, with Lo transitioning to an advisory role.

The business model centers on producing and supplying fresh leafy greens. The company's technology utilizes hydroponics, growing plants in nutrient-enriched water without soil, pesticides, herbicides, or chemicals. This method results in produce that does not require pre-washing. A core selling point is the significant reduction in water usage—up to 99% less than traditional agriculture—and the ability to locate farms near consumption points, thereby reducing transportation-related carbon emissions and food waste. The controlled environment is managed through machine learning, AI, and data analytics, overseen by a team of engineers and plant scientists. Its product line includes lettuces, arugula, spinach, and mixed greens.

Crop One serves both retail and food service markets. In the U.S., its produce is sold under the FreshBox Farms brand in supermarkets across the New England area. The primary client for its Dubai operation is Emirates Flight Catering, supplying fresh greens for meals served on Emirates and over 100 other airlines, as well as airport lounges. Produce from the Dubai farm is also sold in local UAE stores under the brand name Bustanica.

Keywords: vertical farming, ag-tech, controlled environment agriculture, hydroponics, food security, sustainable agriculture, leafy greens, Emirates Crop One, Bustanica, FreshBox Farms, indoor farming, food supply chain, local food, Sonia Lo, Craig Ratajczyk, data-driven farming, pesticide-free produce, water conservation, urban agriculture, food technology