NatureSweet has added another location to its portfolio of greenhouse facilities and has begun planting and growing produce in Bonita, Arizona, located in Graham County.
The produce grower plans to hire about 250 agricultural workers over the next three years and invest over $5 million in the facility. This investment marks the expansion of growing operations into the U.S. for the brand, which is known for growing fresh tomatoes, cucumbers, and peppers.
NatureSweet celebrated the ribbon cutting yesterday alongside 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.
“Arizona is proud to celebrate this new production facility in Graham County,” said Governor Katie Hobbs. “With this investment, NatureSweet will create hundreds of quality jobs in rural Arizona and strengthen Arizona’s important agriculture industry.”
NatureSweet plans to hire about 250 agricultural workers over the next three years and invest over $5 million in the facility.
“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. “We look forward to contributing to the area’s dynamic landscape and growing a successful future together. We are just starting.”
NatureSweet will start operations by growing D’Vines cherry tomatoes that are harvested and packaged on the vine, then expanding to other conventional and organic products throughout 18 hectares (more than 44 acres) of greenhouse space at the Bonita facility. The more than $5 million investment from the company will stimulate economic growth in a rural, underserved area of southern Arizona, fostering sustainable development and opportunities for local communities.
“I am thrilled to see NatureSweet make such a significant investment here in Graham County,” says Arizona Congressman Juan Ciscomani. “It’s exciting to see the company recognize all that Graham County has to offer and put their roots in our community for years to come.”
“This ribbon cutting represents a significant win for rural Arizona and Graham County,” said Sandra Watson, president, and CEO of the Arizona Commerce Authority. “We are grateful to have an innovative industry leader like NatureSweet in Arizona, creating quality jobs while driving further economic growth in our rural communities.”
NatureSweet is headquartered in Texas and has facilities in Mexico and Arizona.
For more information:
Jennifer Halpin
NatureSweet
jennyh@naturesweet.com
https://naturesweet.com/