Taylor Farms expands controlled-environment greens supply with Equinox deal
Taylor Farms has acquired Equinox Growers, a leafy greens greenhouse operation in Louisa, Va., expanding the company’s controlled-environment growing capacity. The facility is one of the largest commercial greenhouses in the Mid-Atlantic, according to Taylor Farms. Equinox Growers’ output will be integrated into Taylor Farms’ product lines and cold-chain network.
Protein-forward line debuts
Earlier this month, Taylor Farms launched a new line of protein-forward salad kits, bowls and snack packs. This move aligns closely with one of the strongest demand signals in convenience services today: higher protein, better-for-you options that still deliver convenience and portability.
For vending, micro markets and office coffee service operators, the format mix is the opportunity. The protein snack packs (13 to 17g protein) are well-suited for smart coolers and glass-fronts, offering a fresh alternative to traditional snack items while supporting premium pricing.
The salad bowls (20 to 23g protein) and chopped kits (up to 21g protein) are stronger fits for micro markets and pantry programs, where consumers are increasingly looking for meal replacements rather than snacks. These items can drive higher tickets, particularly in workplace settings where lunch occasions are shifting back on-site.
“Retailers and consumers alike are increasingly seeking long-term, reliable access to greenhouse-grown produce,” T. Bruce Taylor, senior vice president of marketing and product, said in a release. He said the acquisition supports Taylor Farms’ efforts to diversify raw product supply by geography and growing method while addressing rising demand for greenhouse-grown salads.
Taylor Farms products are typically available to micro market, vending and office refreshment operators through major foodservice and produce distributors such as Performance Food Group, Gordon Food Service and Sysco. Operators looking to add Taylor Farms salad bowls, kits or fresh-cut produce should check with their primary distributor for local distribution center availability, case packs, delivery days and shelf-life expectations.
Why this matters for convenience services operators
- Convenience services operators, commissaries and fresh food suppliers serving the eastern United States stand to benefit most from improved regional greens access.
- Greater production will allow Taylor Farms to have a more stable year-round supply for fresh food programs.
- Short cold-chain logistics matters for micro markets, where shelf life and shrink are constant pressures.
About the Author
Linda Becker
Head of Content
Linda Becker is head of content for Automatic Merchandiser and VendingMarketWatch.com, responsible for the brands’ overall content strategy, planning and performance. She oversees the creation and performance of editorial and multimedia content across platforms such as magazines, websites, webinars, podcasts, newsletters, videos, social media, events and eBooks.
Since joining Automatic Merchandiser and VendingMarketWatch.com, Linda has developed a new appreciation for the convenience services industry and its essential role. She is dedicated to serving readers by covering the latest news in the vending, office coffee service and micro market industry. She can be reached at 262-203-9924 or [email protected].