FARMING THE FUTURE

Local Roots & Fast Growth
CARL GUPTON
CEO, Greenswell Growers

Our October speaker is Carl Gupton, CEO of Greenswell Growers, an indoor hydroponic greenhouse in Goochland County. Using climate-controlled, fully automated systems, Greenswell grows green-leaf and red-leaf lettuces, arugula, butter lettuce, and baby romaine from seed to package in less than 30 days.

Carl will talk about Greenswell’s story, its technology, and how this model is positioning Goochland as a hub for agricultural innovation while strengthening both the local economy and food system. Greenswell was founded by individuals with connections to Feed More, Virginia's largest food bank, and it currently provides 5% of its annual production to the organiztion.

The 1.5-acre Greenswell facility produces about 700,000 pounds annually using 95% less water, eliminating pesticides, reducing transportation costs, and employing advanced packaging to extend freshness and reduce waste. Operating inside and year-round, it also helps reduce dependence on seasonal farm labor by creating steady indoor jobs that support the local workforce.

Carl Gupton is the CEO and the leader of a team of “lettuce connoisseurs” at Greenswell Growers. He earned an MBA from Virginia Commonwealth University and a BA in business and economics from Randolph-Macon College. Prior to leading Greenswell, he held senior leadership roles in the packaging industry, serving as Vice President/General Manager at Pohlig Packaging, as well as Vice President of Commonwealth Packaging.