Mastronardi Produce® Partners with Rhode Island Grows to Break Ground on New Greenhouse; Paul Mastronardi and Tim Schartner Comment
KINGSVILLE, ONTARIO, & EXETER, RI - When we combine the brain power of two supply-side mavens, there is nothing we cannot accomplish. Mastronardi Produce and family farming operation Rhode Island Grows have put their heads together and recently broke ground on a new 25-acre greenhouse in Exeter, Rhode Island, in an effort to bring more high-flavor, fresh fruits and vegetables to the region.
“This high-tech, state-of the-art facility will use Controlled Environment Agriculture (CEA) to provide environmentally sustainable, high quality produce even through the winter,” says Paul Mastronardi, President and CEO of Mastronardi Produce. “This is a significant milestone that we’re honored to be a part of; it will increase our ability to efficiently bring more locally-grown produce to the Northeastern region of the U.S.”
According to a press release, the new facility kicks off phase one of Rhode Island Grows’ CEO Tim Schartner’s plan to supply SUNSET® branded produce. The build is expected to leave a nearly zero-carbon footprint using solar and other green energy components.
Both Mastronardi Produce and Rhode Island Grows share the same passion of delivering quality, flavorful fruits and vegetables that are grown locally and sustainably. Contributing to these values, the Exeter location ensures opportunity and affluence for the entire region which it will serve.
“Our state-of-the-art greenhouse will provide a consistent supply of fresh fruits and vegetables to an area that generally relies on outside sources to provide food,” says Schartner, the 5th generation family member to lead Rhode Island Grows. “Together, with Mastronardi Produce, we are bringing innovation and wealth creation to the area through sustainable advanced technologies, acumen, and food security.”
Rhode Island-grown SUNSET® tomatoes and peppers are currently set to hit stores in 2022, so be sure to save a spot in your produce aisle when planning for next season.
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