2023-09-14 15:28:16
-The factors that drove the start of Groots were the following: firstly, the search for an alternative to traditional agriculture and the intensive consumption of natural resources; secondly, the aspiration to establish an alternative agricultural approach for the future, which anticipates a more arid reality due to climate change, marked by an increase in urban areas, the decrease of available spaces and a smaller layout of the population to work in agriculture. It is crucial to emphasize, however, that vertical agriculture must be considered as a complement to conventional agriculture, and not as a mutually exclusive option. Similar to how greenhouses revolutionized industry, vertical farming is also a transformative milestone in the way we approach agricultural production.
-What does your system consist of?
-We grow in controlled environments using a vertical farming technology, which combines shelves and modular towers. This makes it possible to optimize the use of space and maximize the quality of the plants. We implement hydroponic methods, in which plants grow in water solutions rich in nutrients, eliminating the need for soil.
– Why is it more efficient and sustainable?
-We reduce water use by 95% compared to conventional agriculture, recycle water and nutrients and use less space to grow more. We operate on renewable energy and are located close to urban centers, which minimizes our greenhouse gas emissions.
-Where are you located?
We have inaugurated a vertical farming farm in Martorell, covering an area of 2,500 square meters and becoming the largest in Spain. This farm has been developed using proprietary technology and has the capacity to produce and process 350,000 plants per month. Previously, we had a smaller farm, which we kept running until we had enough production capacity on the new farm to close it down.
-Do you have short-term growth plans?
-We hope to make the jump to the national market with the opening of two similar farms in the Madrid area and strengthen the territorial presence with the opening of a second farm in Catalonia. Our goal is to have a total of seven productive farms by the end of 2026.
– What types of products can be grown using hydroponics?
-We have successfully grown more than 50 varieties of plants, from aromatic herbs and vegetables to tomatoes, peppers, strawberries, hops and medicinal plants. The flexibility of our system allows us to adapt to the needs of each client or the market. It is true that our vertical cultivation technology is not suitable for every plant.
-What role does technology play in your project?
-Technology is fundamental in our project. We use automated systems and sensors to monitor growing conditions, and an artificial intelligence system that optimizes those conditions, improving plant health and performance.
-How does your marketing model work?
-We are located in 136 points of sale, which include fruit shops and small-scale stores, medium-scale stores and chains and large-scale distribution chains. We also offer our varieties through online stores.
-And what are the formats?
– On the one hand, live cones with roots, for continued use and longer conservation period. On the other, ‘ready to eat’ products, such as a mix of salads and already cut aromatic herbs, focused on convenience.
-What is your sales projection?
-According to our projections, we expect sales growth from 2.8 million euros in 2023 to 15.8 million euros in 2026. This growth will require the hiring of more than 100 people, which will represent an increase in 525% in the number of employees in just five years.
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