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Vertical farming company GrowUp Farms has appointed Mike Hedges as its new chief executive officer.

The move comes as the company seeks to accelerate its growth trajectory following a successful year marked by significant investments and expanded retail partnerships.

Hedges, who brings over 20 years of experience in the fast-moving consumer goods (FMCG) sector, succeeds Marcus Whately, who has stepped down after six years in the role.

Whately will remain a shareholder in the company, having played a pivotal role in its development from a start-up to a recognised brand in the UK supermarket landscape.

Under Whately’s leadership, GrowUp Farms achieved several key milestones, including certification as a B Corporation and becoming the first vertical farming company to sell branded salad products in mainstream UK supermarkets.

The company’s Fresh Leaf Co range, along with its Unbeleafable brand, which features Zesty Baby Leaves, has gained traction among consumers seeking fresh and sustainable produce.

Chris Britton, chairman of GrowUp Farms, said: “Marcus has led our business to become the first vertical farming brand to sell branded salad in mainstream UK supermarkets. This achievement has not only been significant for our growth but also brings the UK a step closer to delivering more secure and sustainable food chains.”

Hedges’ appointment comes at a crucial time for GrowUp Farms, which recently secured a £38 million investment to further enhance its operations. His previous roles at companies such as Little Moons, Proper Snacks, and Tyrrells Crisps have equipped him with a wealth of experience in integrated business development and operational excellence. Hedges is expected to leverage this expertise to drive GrowUp’s mission of transforming the UK salad category.

“I am thrilled to join GrowUp at such a pivotal moment for the business,” Hedges remarked. “With a £38 million investment recently secured, GrowUp is in a strong position to build on the foundations laid by Marcus and the wider team to transform the UK salad category and become the number one salad brand that everyone reaches for on supermarket shelves.”

GrowUp Farms, which has raised over £100 million since its inception in 2013, operates a state-of-the-art vertical farm on a five-acre brownfield site in Kent.

The facility uses advanced technology and 100% renewable energy sourced from a co-located bioenergy plant to create an optimal growing environment for salad leaves year-round. Once fully operational, the site is projected to produce 1.4 million bags of salad weekly.

The company’s products are currently available in major retailers, including Tesco, Sainsbury's, Co-op, Spar and Iceland, reflecting a growing acceptance and demand for vertical farming solutions in the mainstream food supply chain.

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