BrightFarms Celebrates Opening of First Texas Greenhouse

BrightFarms Celebrates Opening of First Texas Greenhouse: A New Era of Fresh, Locally Grown Produce

Indoor farming innovator BrightFarms has officially opened its first greenhouse in Texas, marking an exciting expansion into the South Central and Southwest regions. This development follows the recent unveiling of the company’s greenhouse in Illinois and is the second of three regional hubs planned for opening this year.

“We’re thrilled to bring the freshest, highest-quality produce to Texans,” said Steve Platt, CEO of BrightFarms, based in Irvington, N.Y. “With our greenhouse expertise and cutting-edge technology, we’re providing year-round access to fresh greens in the Lone Star State. As proud members of the GO TEXAN Program, we are dedicated to supporting Texas agriculture while delivering exceptional produce.”

The new greenhouse facility in Lorena, Texas, spans 1.5 million square feet and utilizes advanced cooling technology, including KUBO’s Ultra-Clima system, ensuring optimal growing conditions throughout the year. This state-of-the-art setup enables BrightFarms to produce leafy greens locally and sustainably, addressing the region’s demand for fresh produce. In addition to the agricultural benefits, the facility is expected to create over 250 jobs for the local community, providing competitive benefits to employees.

Mayor Tommy Ross of Lorena expressed excitement about the development, stating, “We’re thrilled to welcome BrightFarms into our community. Not only will this create valuable jobs, but it will also bring fresh, locally grown produce to Lorena, benefiting everyone in the region.”

BrightFarms is part of Cox Farms, a venture of Cox Enterprises that became the largest greenhouse operator in North America by November 2024. With a combined total of over 700 acres across its brands, including Mucci Farms, Cox Farms is poised to help secure a sustainable food supply. The new greenhouse in Texas, along with those in Illinois and Georgia, will allow BrightFarms to reach more than two-thirds of the U.S. population with its fresh, responsibly grown produce. This expansion marks a key milestone in the company’s mission to provide sustainable, healthy food for generations to come.