NatureSweet opens greenhouse production facility in Arizona

The company plans to grow cherry tomatoes as well as a mix of conventional and organic produce at its 44-acre facility in Bonita, Ariz.

NatureSweet greenhouse ribbon cutting
NatureSweet greenhouse ribbon cutting
(Photo courtesy of Nature Sweet)

San Antonio-based NatureSweet said in a news release it opened another greenhouse in Bonita, Ariz. The company said the location planted D’Vines, a cherry tomato. The company said it will grow both conventional and organic crops in its 44 acres of greenhouses.

“Choosing Arizona to plant our seeds is more than just a strategic decision, it’s a commitment to innovation, collaboration and the incredible opportunities that the state offers,” said Rodolfo Spielmann, president & CEO of NatureSweet, said in the release. “We look forward to contributing to the area’s dynamic landscape and growing a successful future together. We are just starting.”

The company said this location will employ about 250 agriculture workers and plans to invest more than $5 million in the facility.

“Arizona is proud to celebrate NatureSweet’s new production facility in Graham County,” said Katie Hobbs, governor of Arizona, said in the news release. “With this investment, NatureSweet will create hundreds of quality jobs in rural Arizona and strengthen Arizona’s important agriculture industry.”

Officials from Graham County, the city of Safford, the city of Willcox, the Graham County Chamber of Commerce, the Arizona Commerce Authority and industry and community leaders joined the NatureSweet team at the ribbon cutting.

“I am thrilled to see NatureSweet make such a significant investment here in Graham County,” says Arizona Congressman Juan Ciscomani. “Because of our skilled workforce and innovative business environment, Arizona has been one of the best places in the country to do business for decades. It’s exciting to see NatureSweet recognize all that Graham County has to offer and put their roots in our community for years to come.”

Related: NatureSweet sold to investment firm that seeks to ‘accelerate growth’

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