Vertical Roots recently shared that its general manager and co-founder, Andrew Hare, was named the Southeast Produce Council’s (SEPC) 2019 recipient of the Next Generation Award. The Next Generation Award is given to SEPC members under 39 who have made a significant contribution to the industry through their company.
The award ceremony took place in Nashville, Tenn. during the Southern Innovations Organics and Foodservice Expo (Sept. 12-14).
“We are beyond thrilled for Andrew to receive this award. He pours his heart and soul into Vertical Roots, and he could not be more deserving of this recognition,” said Stefanie Swackhamer, Vice President of Mission, Marketing and Business Development at AmplifiedAg, the parent company of Vertical Roots. “The work he does daily challenges how we grow, consume, and distribute food, so we're even more proud that our industry colleagues recognize that with Andrew's leadership.”
Based in Charleston, Vertical Roots grows fresh, pesticide-free greens year-round inside recycled shipping containers. Each farm is outfitted with fully-automated systems, LED lighting and soil-free, hydroponic growing technology. The farm company is dedicated to transparency and quality, so each head of lettuce is traceable back to its seed. The company opened its second site in Columbia in spring 2019.
Vertical Roots greens are available in grocery stores and restaurants across South Carolina and into Charlotte, NC, Savannah and Augusta, GA. For more information, and to see where Vertical Roots is available for purchase, visit verticalroots.com.
