Harry Leach

05-27-19

An Alvechurch tech firm has launched a new ‘vertical farm’ designed to produce high-quality, home-grown salads, herbs and greens.

Vertivore Farm, created by Astwood Group, and based at Moons Moat North Industrial Estate, is ideal for large or small-scale food producers who want to source the finest, local ingredients.

The farm itself consists of a climate-controlled chamber with a stream of LED lights to grow ‘beyond organic’ and nutritional produce, which is said to lead to ‘improved quality and taste’.

Michael Capwell, CEO of the Astwood Group and founder of Vertivore said: “Advances in technology have made foods available that were previously seasonal or regional, but with a devastating impact on the planet.

“In developing and launching the farm, we have successfully established an environmentally-friendly way of growing home-grown produce, without the use of damaging pesticides.”

Vertivore conserves natural resources, using 70% less water than soil-based farming and does so with fewer miles involved to travel from pallet to place.

“This could be vital as and when we feel the impact of Brexit,” said Michael.

With its pilot vertical farm successfully up and running, Astwood Group boasts ambitious plans for the Vertivore brand, with an aim to scale through the launch of new sites in strategic locations across the UK.

With produce grown and harvested 365 days a year, without the requirement for good weather, herbicides or pesticides, Vertivore has already received interest from a number of industry stakeholders.

For more information head to – www.vertivore.com

Photos:

1. Jack Gooch, Will Evans, Bert Roelants and Amber Capewell. Picture by Marcus Mingins 2119016MMR1 www.buyphotos247.com

2. Bert Roelants, Amber Capewell, Will Evans and Jack Gooch. Picture by Marcus Mingins 2119016MMR2 www.buyphotos247.com