Big things are growing in Macon—literally. BrightFarms has officially opened its newest greenhouse right here in our community, and it’s already making waves across the Southeast.

Located at 3037 Airport East Parkway, the new facility is powered by cutting-edge greenhouse technology and is one of only three of its kind in the world. It’s designed to grow fresh, sustainable salad greens for the entire region—and it’s doing it fast.

To celebrate the grand opening, a formal ribbon cutting was held on Thursday, June 5, 2025, drawing a crowd of local business leaders, community partners, and representatives from Cox Enterprises. Also in attendance were members of the Macon-Bibb Industrial Authority, along with local and state government officials, underscoring the significance of this investment for the region. Steve Bradley, President of Cox Farms, was present alongside several Cox executives, all eager to showcase the beautiful, high-tech facility. As part of the celebration, a proclamation was made by the Mayor’s Office, officially declaring June 5th as BrightFarms Day in Macon-Bibb County, recognizing the company’s contribution to sustainable agriculture and economic development in the region.

Guests were treated to guided tours of the 8-acre greenhouse, where they saw firsthand how BrightFarms is revolutionizing agriculture in the Southeast. The event also featured celebrity chef Marcus Samuelsson, who prepared delicious bites using fresh produce and lettuce grown right on-site.

“Georgia has been home to Cox since 1939, and we’re proud to deepen our roots in the state through this significant investment,” said Steve Bradley, President of Cox Farms. “This greenhouse is creating jobs, expanding economic opportunities, and supporting sustainable agriculture. We are committed to generating long-term value for our communities, employees and partners by increasing access to fresh, locally grown produce and fostering workforce development.”

The Macon greenhouse currently spans eight acres under glass, with plans to expand to 32 acres as demand grows. It’s already producing an impressive 22,000 pounds of lettuce per day, helping reduce food miles and improve food security across the Southeast.

“We’re excited to mark the opening and impact of our first greenhouse in Georgia with an immersive and educational experience,” said Kelvin Hill, General Manager of the Macon facility. “[I]t’s a chance to showcase how we’re prioritizing sustainability, investing in local talent, and expanding access to fresh, locally grown produce across the Southeast.”

The celebration also included a panel discussion moderated by Greg Lindsay of Fast Company Studio, featuring Erica Thomas, Founder of Eating with Erica; Abby Prior, Chief Commercial Officer of BrightFarms; and Kathy McCollum, President and CEO of the Middle Georgia Food Bank. The panel explored the importance of having fresh, local produce available in Central Georgia and how it can help address food scarcity and improve access to healthy food for all.

“We can have it on the shelf in less than 24 hours, so all that freshness goes to our customers,” said Bradley. “That’s really the promise we’re bringing is the value add of higher quality, fresher, better tasting product that you actually get to eat every leaf.”

This new facility is more than a greenhouse—it’s a glimpse into the future of agriculture, right here in Central Georgia. With support from Cox Farms and the dedication of local leaders, Macon-Bibb County is quickly becoming a hub for innovation, sustainability, and fresh food.

You can learn more about BrightFarms on their website: https://www.brightfarms.com/