When Kentucky based AppHarvest filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy back in July, the future of its four separate greenhouse facilities was unclear. Now Mastronardi Produce, a former AppHarvest distribution partner, has leased two of the AppHarvest facilities from Equilibrium Capital which purchased the facilities as part of AppHarvest’s bankruptcy process.
The high-tech greenhouse facilities – separately located in Richmond and Morehead, Kentucky – represent a combined 120 acres of fully lit production.
“We are very proud to keep the Morehead and Richmond facilities online and to grow with the teams there,” said Paul Mastronardi, President & CEO of Mastronardi Produce Ltd. “It is a privilege to continue to serve this region through sustainable farming, providing local jobs in Appalachia and nutritious food across the US.”
“As leaders in commercial greenhouse growing, we’re invested in expanding both productive capacity in the industry and employment opportunities for workers” added Mastronardi. “We look forward to providing employees opportunities to continue their careers in the industry and also to grow within our Flavor Nation family.”
Mastronardi Produce has already set up a support team to ensure a smooth transition and continuity of operations for employees at Morehead and Richmond.
