Great Lakes Growers Expansion

Dr. Jake Holley

Big news out of Northeast Ohio, Great Lakes Growers is adding a $5 million, 50,000-sq. ft. greenhouse to their existing range. The addition brings the operation to a total of 5 acres and will soon employ 40 workers. According to local news reports, the project also includes power and infrastructure improvements that would support an additional 4 acres of future growth, so they’re clearly building with the next phase in mind. 

I find the math satisfyingly precise. That works out to $100 per square foot. We often think of greenhouse cost per square foot as much lower than this, but what I like about the figure is that it covers everything: climate control, packing, shipping and any electrical or water upgrades. The infrastructure piece matters here, since the cost of this is a bit hefty, as they include room for future expansion.

The new greenhouse, just over an acre, adds 12 jobs to the local economy. That number would feel more satisfying as a multiple of five, but it’s still fascinating to think a team of 12 can run the entire greenhouse on its own. 

As for what they’ll grow, expect the same crops that built the company’s name: hydroponic lettuce, leafy greens and herbs. IG