NatureSweet, the largest vertically integrated agricultural company in North America and the #1 snacking tomato brand has added another location to its portfolio of greenhouse facilities and has begun planting and growing produce in Bonita, Arizona located in Graham County.
The leading produce grower plans to hire about 250 agricultural workers over the next three years and invest over $5 million in the facility alone, which will have a multiplying effect on Arizona’s economy. This investment marks the expansion of growing operations into the US for the brand which is well known for growing fresh and delicious tomatoes, cucumbers and peppers. NatureSweet celebrated the ribbon cutting today alongside officials from Graham County, the City of Safford, the City of Willcox, the Graham County Chamber of Commerce, the Arizona Commerce Authority, and industry and community leaders.
“Arizona is proud to celebrate NatureSweet’s new production facility in Graham County,” said Governor Katie Hobbs. “With this investment, NatureSweet will create hundreds of quality jobs in rural Arizona and strengthen Arizona’s important agriculture industry.”
“Choosing Arizona to plant our seeds is more than just a strategic decision, it’s a commitment to innovation, collaboration, and the incredible opportunities that the state offers,” said Rodolfo Spielmann, President & CEO of NatureSweet. “We look forward to contributing to the area’s dynamic landscape and growing a successful future together. We are just starting.”
NatureSweet which has become well known for its snacking and cherry-on-the-vine tomato varieties, will start operations by growing D’Vines, flavorful cherry tomatoes that are harvested and packaged on-the-vine for maximum freshness, to then expand to other conventional and organic products throughout 18 hectares (more than 44 acres), of greenhouse space at the Bonita facility. The more than five-million-dollar investment from the greenhouse leader will stimulate economic growth in a rural, underserved area of southern Arizona, fostering sustainable development and opportunities for local communities.
“I am thrilled to see NatureSweet make such a significant investment here in Graham County,” says Arizona Congressman Juan Ciscomani. “Because of our skilled workforce and innovative business environment, Arizona has been one of the best places in the country to do business for decades. It’s exciting to see NatureSweet recognize all that Graham County has to offer and put its roots in our community for years to come.”
“Today’s ribbon cutting represents a significant win for rural Arizona and Graham County,” said Sandra Watson, President and CEO of the Arizona Commerce Authority. “We are grateful to have an innovative industry leader like NatureSweet in Arizona, creating quality jobs while driving further economic growth in our rural communities.”
