Vertical farming business wins funding for large London site

Harvest London, a vertical farming enterprise, has secured investment funding to develop a 140,000 sq ft site in South London.

The site is due to be in operation by mid-2024 and will be capable of growing more than 1,000t of fresh produce a year.

Harvest London operates two existing indoor vertical farms, producing a range of salad vegetables and herbs all year round.

See also: Vertical farms offer solution to fruit and veg shortages

Its produce is predominantly focused on sales to restaurants and the food service sector; however, it is working to expand further into retail.

Investment firm Foresight Group is providing the funding for development of the new site.

Chris Davies, one of Harvest London’s founders, said: “This investment is a sign that the vertical farming sector in the UK is maturing. While you might not yet have tasted something grown in a vertical farm, in the future this type of produce is going to be on your menu, whether that’s from a supermarket, in prepared food, or eating out.

“Vertical farming is a technology that can complement British agriculture, helping us reduce our reliance on food imports, and give consumers fresher, more local ingredients. We want to make the UK a world-leader in this exciting new industry.”