Virginia Facility Represents CEA Milestone (Image Credits: Upload.wikimedia.org)
Salinas, California – Taylor Farms announced its acquisition of Equinox Growers from Generate Capital, marking the company’s largest investment in controlled-environment agriculture to date.[1][2] The deal centers on a state-of-the-art leafy greens facility in Louisa, Virginia, aimed at diversifying supply chains and meeting rising consumer demand for reliable greenhouse produce. This move positions the family-owned fresh foods leader to enhance freshness across the Eastern United States.
Virginia Facility Represents CEA Milestone
The 10-acre greenhouse stands as the largest commercial operation in the Mid-Atlantic region, capable of producing approximately six million pounds of leafy greens each year.[3] Developed in 2022 by Generate Capital and partners, it reached full operation with a 2024 ribbon-cutting attended by former Virginia Governor Glenn Youngkin. Cutting-edge Dutch technology enables year-round production, slashing land, water, and transport needs compared to field farming.
Equinox Growers’ team, boasting over 120 years of combined experience, will continue managing the site.[1] Integration into Taylor Farms’ product range and cold-chain logistics promises fresher greens for retailers and consumers throughout the East Coast. The CEA lettuce segment, one of packaged salads’ fastest growers, expands by about 25% annually amid preferences for crunch and consistency.[4]
Executives Highlight Strategic Fit
T. Bruce Taylor, senior vice president of marketing and product at Taylor Farms, emphasized the acquisition’s role in supply diversification. “Retailers and consumers alike are increasingly seeking long-term, reliable access to greenhouse grown produce,” he said. “We’re taking a major step forward into controlled-environment agriculture as this acquisition allows us to continue diversifying our raw product supply – both in geography and growing method – while meeting the rising demand for high-quality greenhouse-grown salads.”[1]
Sydney Ramskill, vice president of CEA, praised the facility’s leadership. “This greenhouse is led by a world-class group of growers and operators with more than 120 years of combined experience,” Ramskill noted. “With a focus on freshness, flavor, and value, we are excited to grow our greenhouse programs in our brands and our customer partners’ brands.” John McMahon, president of Equinox Growers, expressed pride in the operation: “We’re incredibly proud of the hard work our team has put into developing this facility and creating an operation that is truly worthy of a partner like Taylor Farms.”[4]
Nam Nguyen, chief operating officer at Generate Capital, underscored the project’s success. “Working alongside our partners, we delivered the facility on time and on budget and established a productive operation,” Nguyen stated.
Taylor Farms’ Aggressive Growth Trajectory
The Salinas-based company, with $7.3 billion in revenue and facilities across the U.S., Canada, Mexico, and Western Europe, has pursued multiple expansions recently.[2] In November, it purchased UK-based Natures Way Foods, which employs around 1,300 people and produces bagged salads, coleslaw, and potato salads. Earlier in 2025, Taylor Farms acquired Bonduelle’s packaged salads business in Germany alongside Foodiverse.
- December 2024: Took a stake in Netherlands-based Hessing, a processor serving Germany, Belgium, Denmark, and the Netherlands.
- Equinox acquisition: Builds on prior CEA efforts, enhancing geographic reach.
- Focus areas: Quality, innovation, food safety, and sustainability.
- Outcome: Broader portfolio of healthy fresh foods for global markets.
These deals reflect Taylor Farms’ commitment to assured supply amid shifting consumer tastes.
Broader Impact on Produce Supply Chains
Controlled-environment agriculture gains traction as retailers strengthen domestic chains for consistent output. Equinox’s proximity to East Coast markets reduces transport emissions and delivery times. Consumers benefit from year-round access to premium greens, supporting regional economies in Virginia.
The transaction, terms undisclosed, aligns with industry momentum. Taylor Farms now leverages Equinox’s scale for competitive edge in salads.[3]
Key Takeaways
- Taylor Farms’ biggest CEA bet diversifies leafy greens supply with a 10-acre Virginia powerhouse producing 6 million pounds annually.
- Expert teams and 25% market growth signal rising CEA dominance in fresh produce.
- Integration boosts East Coast freshness, sustainability, and consumer choice.
This acquisition cements Taylor Farms’ leadership in innovative farming, promising steadier greens on shelves nationwide. What do you think about the rise of CEA in produce? Tell us in the comments.
