Stacked Farm Announces First Large-Scale Vertical Farm in Melbourne Airport Precinct

In this episode of Global Economic Press, Alex Brady delves into a transformative development in agriculture with Stacked Farm's announcement of the first large-scale vertical farm in the Melbourne Airport precinct. This $150 million project will feature a fully automated, climate-controlled facility covering 10,000 square meters, capable of producing 3.4 million kilograms of fresh herbs and leafy greens annually. The innovative approach aims to optimize space, reduce production times, and minimize environmental variability, setting a new benchmark for farming efficiency and food security in Australia. The facility will operate with only 15 staff members and 25 proprietary robotics, emphasizing efficiency and sustainability.

Notably, this is the first vertical farm of its kind within an airport precinct in the Southern Hemisphere, with construction beginning in January 2025 and completion expected by mid-2026. The project is financed through a combination of debt and equity, with significant investment from Magnetar Capital, a United States-based alternative assets manager. The facility will feature a zero-waste water system and be powered entirely by green energy, allowing for significantly faster crop cycles. Stacked Farm's innovative approach promises to deliver premium produce at competitive prices, addressing the rising costs of healthy eating in Australia. For more information, visit Stacked Farm's website.