Hydroponic farm acquisition boosts West Michigan agriculture, job training

CALEDONIA, MI – An organization that provides job training for people with disabilities has acquired a sustainable lettuce farm in Kent County.

Peckham, a vocational rehabilitation nonprofit, earlier this month said it expanded its agriculture business with the acquisition of Revolution Farms, a 3.5-acre, hydroponic, indoor lettuce farm in Caledonia.

The purchase price was not disclosed, but Peckham will gain about 30 Revolution Farms employees through the acquisition.

Founded in 2018, Revolution Farms provides nearly 1.5 million pounds of salad greens each year to grocery chains, restaurants and hospitality groups throughout the Midwest.

The hydroponic farm claims to use 90% less water and land compared to traditional farming methods and that its produce travels 95% fewer miles to reach consumers, ensuring freshness.

“This is an exciting new chapter for Revolution Farms,” John Green, CEO of Revolution Farms, said in a statement. “Having Peckham on board means continued growth and opportunity — not only for the farm and its customers, but for our dedicated employees who are the heart of what we do.”

The acquisition also is a growth opportunity for the Peckham Farms line of business, which includes a 2.5-acre produce farm in Lansing. Peckham Farms facilities grow fruits, vegetables, herbs and flowers.

Peckham also operates federal call centers in Grand Rapids and three military apparel manufacturing facilities in Michigan.

The organization also has business lines in Phoenix, Ariz., and London, Ky.

“Peckham and Revolution Farms share a commitment to people, community and providing high-quality products and services to customers,” Jo Sperry, Peckham chief executive and inclusion officer, said in a statement. “We are excited to add this reputable and respectable brand to our social enterprises, and to continue to innovate in one of Michigan’s leading industries.”

Peckham is a nonprofit that provides paid job training for people with disabilities and other barriers to employment, such as a criminal background, minimal education or minimal successful work experience.

Job opportunities include farm work, manufacturing, customer service, third-party logistics and custodial services.

Last fiscal year, Peckham had more than 7,500 people in its programs and paid more than $104 million in wages.

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