Key Takeaways:
- Fischer Farms appoints Chris Kirke, with over 26 years of FMCG experience, as its new CEO to lead day-to-day operations and strategic growth.
- Tristan Fischer, founder of Fischer Farms, transitions to Group CEO, focusing on innovation, R&D, and global expansion.
- Fischer Farms continues to scale its vertical farming operations, moving from leafy greens to crops like soft fruit, rice, wheat, soy, and peas.
- The company emphasizes sustainability, aiming to create a more efficient food supply chain through its advanced vertical farming technologies.
- Chris Kirke will nurture existing customer relationships while driving new business and expanding commercial partnerships.
Fischer Farms, the company behind one of the world’s largest vertical farming operations, has announced the appointment of Chris Kirke as its new CEO. Chris, who brings over 26 years of experience in the fast-moving consumer goods (FMCG) industry across the UK and the US, joins from Moy Park, where he served as CEO for six years. His expertise also includes leadership roles at Greencore US, where he worked as Managing Director and CEO, helping to meet the evolving demands of global retailers and brands.
In his new role, Chris will oversee the daily operations of Fischer Farms, utilizing the company’s cutting-edge automated systems that produce salad yields up to 250 times greater than conventional farming methods. His focus will also be on maintaining product quality, enhancing sustainability, and steering the strategic direction of the company as it continues to expand.
Strengthening Leadership for Future Growth
With Chris Kirke joining the executive team, founder Tristan Fischer will move into the role of Group CEO. Tristan will maintain his position as the visionary behind Fischer Farms, focusing on innovation, research and development, and global expansion efforts. He will continue to work closely with Chris and John Stapleton, Chairman of the Board, to support the growth of Fischer Farms and its related ventures, Fischer Farms Foods and Fischer Farms Technology.
Together, Tristan and Chris will also work on strengthening the company’s profile among current and potential investors and stakeholders. Tristan Fischer commented, “Chris’ knowledge and experience in the food sector, especially in the US, will be invaluable as we continue to scale up and attract more commercial partners. While Chris focuses on the today, I will focus on the tomorrow, driving forward Fischer Farms’ goal to safeguard food security on a global scale.”
Expanding Production and Commercial Partnerships
As Fischer Farms continues to scale, the company plans to expand its crop production from leafy greens to include soft fruit, rice, wheat, soy, and peas. This expanded portfolio is expected to attract widespread commercial interest from major retailers and food service providers. Chris Kirke expressed his enthusiasm, stating, “It’s an exciting time to join Fischer Farms as the business scales and attracts interest from across the industry. Vertical farming offers real promise for creating a more sustainable food supply chain, and I look forward to driving growth and innovation in this space.”
Commitment to Sustainability
Fischer Farms remains committed to sustainability, aligning its practices with environmentally-conscious consumers and socially responsible investors. The company’s vertical farming technology significantly reduces water usage, eliminates the need for pesticides, and minimizes transportation emissions by enabling local production. This approach ensures fresher, healthier produce while lowering the environmental footprint associated with traditional farming practices.
Chris Kirke highlighted the importance of this commitment, noting, “Vertical farming allows us to deliver high-quality fresh produce with minimal impact on the planet. I am thrilled to be part of this movement and hope to contribute to shaping the future of the vertical farming industry.”
Fischer Farms Latest News
Gears Up As Opening Of Facility Edges Closer (2022/10/31)
Fischer Farms is set to create 27 new jobs in Norfolk as it prepares to open the world’s largest vertical farm. Construction on the 25,000m2 farm is complete and the office facility is fully operational. Fischer Farms is looking to take on 18 additional recruits in the coming months, offering the opportunity to join the cutting edge of AgroScience. The four-acre site will supply 6.5 tonnes of leaf salad, lettuce, leafy herbs, and other fresh produce to UK supermarkets daily. The farm will be powered by 100% renewable energy and use less water than traditional cultivation methods.
Image provided by Fischer Farms
3 Comments