Development and scaling up of local food production

In Gullberg outside Kinna there is a small-scale farming operation with a focus on local food production according to regenerative principles. Through the project Development and scaling up of local food production in Gullberg Brors gård och text AB wants to build a larger greenhouse to meet the increasing demand for locally grown vegetables, cut flowers and perennial plants.

The business currently sells vegetables directly to households through a share model where customers book a portion of the harvest in advance and then receive weekly deliveries during the season. Vegetables are also delivered to restaurants and local customers. Interest has grown rapidly and demand is greater than production can currently meet. Therefore, the new greenhouse will be an important piece of the puzzle in order to be able to extend the season, grow more crops and develop the business further.

The project includes the construction of a greenhouse of approximately 225 square meters and the development of the surrounding cultivation areas. Among other things, plants that benefit pollinators and perennial shrubs and trees that strengthen the microclimate and biodiversity are planned here. The cultivation is based on fixed beds and gentle tillage to strengthen soil health and reduce the need for pesticides and fertilizers.

The initiative will also make the business more accessible to more people. With a longer season and larger production, it will be possible to develop new sales channels and a farm shop is high on the list going forward. In addition, open houses, tours and activities are planned where visitors can learn more about small-scale food production and sustainable farming. In this way, the project wants to create both new customer relationships and a local meeting place around food, farming and sustainable transition.

The project builds on an earlier feasibility study on local food production in Marks municipality. It showed that both the demand and interest for locally produced food is high, while many small-scale producers lack opportunities to grow. With the help of the greenhouse, the business wants to take the next step and at the same time inspire more people to discover the value of local and sustainable food production.