GrowUP Farms

GrowUp Farms, founded in 2013 by Kate Hofman and Tom Webster, is a pioneering vertical farming business in the UK. The company began with a small-scale operation in a glasshouse atop a shipping container in East London, funded through a Kickstarter campaign. It has since scaled significantly, securing over £100 million in funding and establishing a large-scale farm in Kent.

The founders, Hofman and Webster, combined their expertise to address the challenges of traditional agriculture. Their vision was to create a more sustainable and resilient food system by growing fresh produce year-round, closer to consumers.

GrowUp Farms specializes in the cultivation of leafy greens, including salad mixes, using vertical farming techniques. This method involves growing crops in stacked layers within a controlled indoor environment. The farms are powered by renewable energy and are designed to be weather-proof, ensuring a consistent and reliable supply of produce. The company asserts that its products are grown without pesticides.

The business operates in the agritech and food production sectors, supplying its produce to the retail market. A notable product line is the 'Unbeleafable' brand of salad leaves, which has received industry recognition. The business model focuses on leveraging technology to produce high-quality, locally-grown food with a reduced environmental footprint compared to conventional farming.

Keywords: vertical farming, agritech, sustainable agriculture, leafy greens, salad production, controlled environment agriculture, food technology, urban farming, local food, horticulture