New State-of-the-Art BrightFarms Greenhouse in Georgia is Creating Jobs, Driving Sustainable Agriculture and Improving Food Security Across the Southeast; Steve Bradley and Kelvin Hill Comment



MACON, GA - BrightFarms, a national leader in indoor farming, celebrated the opening of its newest greenhouse in Macon, Georgia. The facility is the most advanced in the state. BrightFarms and its parent company Cox Farms, a Cox Enterprises company, invited Macon leaders and other distinguished guests from across the state to explore the future of greenhouse technology. The grand opening event featured interactive tours of the new Cox Farms Discovery Center, an expert-led panel discussion on the future of food, and an inside look at how BrightFarms is redefining freshness, innovation, and accessibility.

Steve Bradley, President, Cox Farms
Steve Bradley, President, Cox Farms

“Georgia has been home to Cox since 1939, and we’re proud to deepen our roots in the state through this significant investment,” said Steve Bradley, president of Cox Farms, in a recent press release. “This greenhouse is creating jobs, expanding economic opportunities, and supporting sustainable agriculture. We are committed to generating long-term value for our communities, employees, and partners by increasing access to fresh, locally grown produce and fostering workforce development.”

The Macon facility, powered by advanced, state-of-the-art greenhouse technology, and now fully operational with eight acres underglass, began shipping produce to retailers in late 2024. It represents a significant investment in Georgia’s agricultural industry and workforce. The greenhouse has the capacity to serve the entire Southeast, having already created more than 125 new jobs and supporting workforce development throughout Macon and surrounding communities. Following the successful openings of the greenhouse hubs in Texas and Illinois, the BrightFarms Macon facility marks the company’s third major greenhouse since the summer of 2024.

 BrightFarms, a national leader in indoor farming, celebrated the opening of its newest greenhouse in Macon, Georgia

“We’re excited to mark the opening and impact of our first greenhouse in Georgia with an immersive and educational experience,” said Kelvin Hill, general manager of BrightFarms’s Macon, Georgia greenhouse. “This celebration is more than a ribbon-cutting – it’s a chance to showcase how we’re prioritizing sustainability, investing in local talent, and expanding access to fresh, locally grown produce across the Southeast.”

At present, the Macon site is designed to produce approximately 22,000 pounds of lettuce per day, helping reduce food miles and improve food security in the region. It currently houses eight acres of growing space, with an additional 24 acres to be developed on the property as demand builds. This will add to the more than 700 acres of indoor farming in operation by Cox Farms, the largest greenhouse operator in the U.S. and Canada.

For more information, visit www.brightfarms.com and www.coxfarms.com.


This report from the grocer provides a deeper look into what’s driving community impact, brand growth, and more…
And Now U Know - Fresh Produce Industry News

late EDITION — 6/6/2025

North Bay Produce

North Bay Produce Newer realities in shopping habits are driving the consumption of blueberries, and the supplier's Ryan Lockman is here to detail how retailers can take advantage this summer… by Anne Allen View

Carrot Market

Carrot Market As production transitions to this central California region, we look at quality, pricing, and more. Grimmway Farms’ Lisa McNeece comments… by Melissa De Leon Chavez View


Only the Finest Berries
Sweet and Snackable

National Mango Board Through a strategic partnership, the organization teams up with a playful partner to spotlight fresh mangos and spark consumer excitement nationwide… by ANUK Staff View

Only the Finest Berries

Alsum Farms & Produce The grower honors future ag leaders with these scholarships, supporting students from key growing regions to build the next generation of produce… by ANUK Staff View

Available Now

Organic Dates are Trending  Be the Number 1 Choice for Shoppers!
Organic Dates are Trending  Be the Number 1 Choice for Shoppers!

Equitable Food Initiative The association urges the industry to rethink safety this month, asking if the real solution is hiding in plain sight… by ANUK Staff View

Organic Dates are Trending  Be the Number 1 Choice for Shoppers!

Save A Lot This report from the grocer provides a deeper look into what’s driving community impact, brand growth, and more… by ANUK Staff View

Taste the talk of summer

Avocados from Colombia - Fresh Taste, Trusted Source

Organic Greenhouse Cucumbers

Top of quote bubble Get social with Jasmine Vineyards | June 6, 2025 10:30 AM Bottom of quote bubble

Shuman Farms - Vidalia Onions Shipping Now

All new and better for you

Joe's Produce

Outside Sales Representative - #8663S

If you’re ready to combine your sales savvy with a role that has freedom, flexibility, and lucrative earning potential while making a meaningful impact, see this posting.

View Job

More jobs from Joe's Produce

Fairtrade America

Senior Business Development Manager

Fairtrade America is looking to hire a Senior Business Development Manager in Washington, DC.

View Job


Confidential- San Francisco, CA / Home/Remote

Produce Broker - Confidential #8391

We are seeking a Produce Broker to join our team either from San Francisco, CA, or remotely.

View Job


Confidential - Remote, East Coast

Sales Executive - #8691S

East Coast produce sales pro wanted. Remote role with travel. Grow retail, foodservice & wholesale accounts for a premium fresh fruit company. High-impact role with a growing team.

View Job


1932 Specialty Produce & Meat

Produce Quality Control / Warehouse & Inventory Associate

1932 Specialty Produce & Meat is seeking a Produce Quality Control / Warehouse & Inventory Associate in Jessup, Maryland.

View Job



Ruby Rush Grapes

Top of quote bubble Get social with Index Fresh | June 6, 2025 10:30 AM Bottom of quote bubble


Gee Whiz - Cherry Pick Peak-Season Perfection

AndNowUKnow

Fresh Produce Industry News

2005 Capitol Ave.
Sacramento, CA
95811
(916) 346 - 4511

Editorial: [email protected]

Advertising: [email protected]

Submit a Press Releases

Contact Us Form: Email

Connect With Us:


bottom footer image

North Bay Produce's Ryan Lockman Details 2025 Domestic Blueberry Crop



TRAVERSE CITY, MI - Blueberries are a vital part of the berry section in the produce department, and retailers need to stay up-to-date on the latest developments in the sector. I touched base with North Bay Produce’s Ryan Lockman, who was more than happy to clue me in on the supplier’s current domestic blueberry crop and how buy-side partners can take advantage this summer.

Ryan Lockman, Vice President of Sales, North Bay Produce

“Promote often and understand that, due to increased consumption levels, price points at retail may not have to be as aggressive as in years past. We are witnessing new realities in consumer behavior, particularly with blueberries, at overall higher retail price points,” Ryan explains.

Although the domestic blueberry crop had a rough start in the Southeast, as Ryan explains to me, northern regions are primed for a great crop, with production as expected.

“North Bay has a very diverse and abundant supply of blueberries during the summer/domestic months of production. Along with our product offerings, we also provide a high level of service, which we believe sets us apart from the rest of the market,” Ryan says.

Although the domestic blueberry crop had a rough start in the Southeast, northern regions are primed for a great crop, with production as expected

In addition to its conventional offerings, the supplier also offers Premium blueberries and blackberries under its RESERVE® label, as well as Jumbo blueberries and organic blueberries.

Stick with ANUK for the latest updates across fresh produce.


EFI Highlights National Safety Month; LeAnne R. Ruzzamenti Comments



WASHINGTON - Equitable Food Initiative, the capacity-building and certification organization that partners with growers, farmworkers and retailers, is recognizing National Safety Month by calling attention to the essential role of worker engagement in reducing safety risks, associated costs and providing resources to help reduce such instances.

According to the National Safety Council, workplace injuries cost U.S. businesses $176.5 billion in 2023, including $53.1 billion in wage and productivity losses and $36.8 billion in medical expenses. More than 103 million days were lost in 2023 due to workplace injuries. Agriculture remains among the most dangerous industries, with injury and fatality rates significantly higher than the all-industry average.

LeAnne Ruzzamenti, Director of Marketing and Communications, Equitable Food Initiative
LeAnne R. Ruzzamenti, Director of Marketing and Communications, Equitable Food Initiative

“June is the perfect time to remind the fresh produce industry that worker safety is not just a moral imperative—it’s a business strategy,” said LeAnne R. Ruzzamenti, director of marketing and communications at EFI, in a recent press release. “Companies that prioritize the voices of their workers are seeing direct results in reduced injuries, increased efficiency, and improved worker retention.”

With labor shortages continuing to strain the agricultural sector, EFI stresses that safety cannot be improved without engaging the estimated 2.5 million U.S.-based farmworkers. Studies show that when workers feel empowered to identify hazards and propose solutions, organizations benefit from both a safer environment and a more stable workforce. Gallup reports that disengaged employees are 64% more likely to be involved in a safety incident than their engaged counterparts.

Equitable Food Initiative is recognizing National Safety Month by calling attention to the essential role of worker engagement in reducing safety risks, associated costs and providing resources to help reduce such instances
Equitable Food Initiative is recognizing National Safety Month by calling attention to the essential role of worker engagement in reducing safety risks, associated costs and providing resources to help reduce such instances

EFI’s collaborative worker-management teams have led safety improvements such as reorganizing traffic flows, improving lighting, clarifying communication signals, implementing ergonomic practices to prevent repetitive motion injuries, improving ladder designs, tractor use, access to hydration and shade, and much more. These initiatives are not only worker-driven but also enhance productivity, efficiencies, and worker retention.

“One of the simplest ways to improve safety is to listen to and engage with workers,” Ruzzamenti added. “When workers are trusted partners in business operations, safety becomes a shared responsibility rather than a top-down mandate.”

EFI has trained more than 4,700 farmworkers and managers in communication, problem-solving, and conflict resolution through its certification program across the United States, Mexico, and Central America.

National Safety Month, launched by the National Safety Council in 1996, serves as a reminder for organizations across all sectors to assess safety risks and take action. EFI urges produce companies to use this opportunity to evaluate health and safety plans and to engage workers for a safer and more resilient agricultural supply chain.


Save A Lot Releases 2024 Social Impact Report; Fred Boehler Comments



ST. LOUIS, MO - Save A Lot, one of the largest discount grocery chains in the U.S., announced the release of the A Lot of Good Report 2024, a social impact overview detailing the company’s work to drive continued value for stakeholders. The report offers a snapshot of key initiatives, programs and stories that highlight the 48-year-old company’s progress in creating a positive impact for Team Members, Retail Partners, customers and communities.

Fred Boehler, Chief Executive Officer, Save A Lot
Fred Boehler, Chief Executive Officer, Save A Lot

“From our founding in 1977, Save A Lot has been rooted in doing a lot of good—through empowering independent owners and operators, delivering real value to families, and showing up for our neighbors when it matters most,” said Fred Boehler, Chief Executive Officer of Save A Lot, in a recent press release. “We’re proud to share this year’s report as a window into our journey—where responsible growth, trust, and a deep respect for people fuel long-term, sustainable success.”

Highlights from the report include:

  • Detail about Save A Lot’s culture for supporting Team Members through hiring, engagement, training, and total rewards.
    An overview of Save A Lot’s locally owned and operated business model, mission, and values, and how Retail Partners and stores are engaging directly with the communities they serve. Through its signature Bags for a Brighter Holiday program, customers helped donate over $350,000 worth of food to more than 480 charities. Hometown Heroes celebrated 16 community champions, and Retail Partners raised more than $1 million for local causes.
  • Discussion of Save A Lot’s private brand strategy, as the company launched 62 new private label items and resulting awards, including a PLMA Award and three bronze distinctions from Store Brands Editors’ Picks for product innovation and quality.
  • Highlights of new initiatives and projects rolled out in 2024 to better serve customers. The debut of Save A Lot Rewards resulted in over 400,000 app downloads and $500,000 in savings for customers in just three months. The company also expanded its eCommerce footprint and launched a culturally tailored store format, Ahorra Mucho, to better serve Hispanic communities.
  • Data on the steps the company is taking to proactively manage energy, emissions and waste across its distribution network. The company achieved a 40% reduction in OSHA recordable incidents, donated more than 13,500 lbs. of food to the St. Louis Area Foodbank, and enhanced energy efficiency through modern fleet and refrigeration upgrades.
Save A Lot, one of the largest discount grocery chains in the U.S., announced the release of the A Lot of Good Report 2024, a social impact overview detailing the company’s work to drive continued value for stakeholders
Save A Lot, one of the largest discount grocery chains in the U.S., announced the release of the A Lot of Good Report 2024, a social impact overview detailing the company’s work to drive continued value for stakeholders

“Our commitment to community, quality, and operational excellence is what sets Save A Lot apart,” said Boehler. “These values aren’t just part of our business model—they’re the reason we continue to be a trusted, vital presence in the neighborhoods we serve.”

View Save A Lot’s full 2024 Social Impact report here.