Local Bounti to Mark Opening of New High-Tech Controlled Environment Agriculture Facility in Pasco, Washington with Ribbon Cutting Ceremony
-Innovative CEA facility combines vertical and greenhouse technologies to grow sustainable produce year-round using 90% less water and land -Enhances rapidly growing national distribution footprint, which is the largest in the CEA industry -Expected to create more than 40 jobs in the Tri-Cities region
Local Bounti Corporation (NYSE: LOCL) ("Local Bounti" or the "Company"), a breakthrough U.S. indoor agriculture company, announced today that it will mark the opening of its new controlled environment agriculture (CEA) facility in Pasco, Washington with a ribbon cutting ceremony on Tuesday, May 7, 2024, from 1:00 to 4:00 pm local time. Members of the Company's management team will be joined by industry leaders, local officials, and members of the community at this invitation-only event.
Craig Hurlbert, Local Bounti's Chief Executive Officer, commented, "We are proud to officially be able to call Pasco home with the opening of this latest facility, which enhances our rapidly growing distribution footprint across the US. Our state-of-the-art CEA facility, which is underpinned by our innovative and patented Stack & Flow Technology®, enables us to support existing customer demand in Washington, Oregon, and adjacent markets in the Pacific Northwest. We are excited about the opportunities this facility creates, not only for our Company but also for the local economy and the environment. Our pledge to sustainability and community engagement remains unwavering, and we look forward to contributing positively to Pasco and the broader Pacific Northwest region."
The facility is expected to generate more than 40 jobs throughout Tri-Cities region and will focus on growing and selling Local Bounti's greenhouse fresh line of packaged leafy greens. Varieties include spring mix, butter lettuce, romaine crisp, green leaf, and additional blends.
"Pasco extends a warm welcome to Local Bounti in our community and the Tri-Cities region. Their dedication to integrating into the community, creating jobs, and prioritizing sustainable practices represents a substantial investment in Pasco's future," said Jacob Gonzalez, Director Community & Economic Development for the City of Pasco. "We are eager to collaborate with Local Bounti as they contribute to our city's growth and diversity of economic opportunities."
The Washington facility spans across three acres and was seeded in January 2024. In April, the facility completed the Food Safety certification, which came in with a score of 100%, and will be shipping to its first national retail customer's northwest division this month. The addition of the new facility fortifies Local Bounti's distribution to directly service local retail distribution centers within the Pacific Northwest region and provide additional capacity to meet existing demand from the Company's direct relationships with blue-chip retail customers.
Local Bounti's patented Stack & Flow Technology seamlessly blends the advantages of vertical and greenhouse cultivation, setting the stage for a new era in sustainable agriculture. With a focus on maximizing efficiency, the Washington facility boasts significantly higher yields while utilizing less water, land, and pesticides compared to traditional farming methods. This commitment to sustainability aligns with Local Bounti's mission to revolutionize the agricultural landscape and reduce its environmental impact.
About Local Bounti
Local Bounti is redefining indoor farming with an innovative method - its patented Stack & Flow Technology® - that significantly improves crop turns, increases output and improves unit economics. Local Bounti operates advanced indoor growing facilities across the United States, servicing approximately 13,000 retail doors. Local Bounti grows healthy food utilizing a hybrid approach that integrates the best attributes of controlled environment agriculture with natural elements. Local Bounti's sustainable growing methods are better for the planet, using 90% less land and 90% less water than conventional farming methods. With a mission to 'bring our farm to your kitchen in the fewest food miles possible,' Local Bounti's food is fresher, more nutritious, and lasts longer than traditional agriculture. To find out more, visit localbounti.com or follow Local Bounti on LinkedIn for the latest news and developments.