Key Takeaways
- Marc Oshima has been appointed as CEO of Babylon Micro-Farms, bringing extensive experience in indoor farming and food systems innovation.
- The company launched the Galleri Lite Micro-Farm on February 6, an affordable hydroponic farming system designed to expand access to fresh, pesticide-free greens.
- Babylon Micro-Farms operates over 300 micro-farms across 40 states and five countries, serving industries such as corporate dining, healthcare, education, hospitality, and senior living.
- Oshima succeeds Marc Oosterhuis, who is stepping down after six years but will continue as an advisor.
- The company has experienced year-over-year growth in 2024 and is positioned to accelerate further in 2025.
Marc Oshima Appointed CEO of Babylon Micro-Farms
Babylon Micro-Farms (Profile) has appointed Marc Oshima as its new Chief Executive Officer, following an extensive search process. Oshima, a recognized leader in controlled environment agriculture (CEA), will oversee the company’s next phase of growth.
“I am delighted to have been appointed CEO to lead Babylon Micro-Farms and build on the original vision of the founders, Alexander Oleson and Graham Smith, to simplify on-site indoor farming and provide more access to good food,” Oshima stated. “With an impressive customer base that includes Aramark, Compass Group, and Sodexo, there is a significant opportunity to expand further and support communities with fresh, locally grown produce.”
Oshima succeeds Marc Oosterhuis, who has been with the company for six years, most recently as CEO. Oosterhuis will remain involved as an advisor to support a smooth transition.
Oshima’s Background in Indoor Farming and Food Systems
Oshima brings extensive experience in indoor farming, retail, and sustainability, having co-founded AeroFarms and served as Board Chair for the CEA Alliance. At AeroFarms, he played a key role in scaling operations to $25 million in annual sales, working with retail and food service partners.
His contributions to the industry include roles with:
- Food for Climate League
- Culinary Institute of America
- International Fresh Produce Association
- CEA Food Safety Coalition
- United Fresh Produce Marketing Association
- Food Bank for NYC
Oshima’s leadership at AeroFarms earned industry recognition, including:
- Fast Company’s “World’s Most Innovative Companies”
- Fortune’s “Change the World” list
- Time’s “Best Inventions in Food”
Company Growth and Future Outlook
Babylon Micro-Farms continues to expand its presence in indoor farming, with over 300 micro-farms in operation. The company has seen consistent growth in 2024 and is positioned for further expansion in 2025.
According to Chris Meyers, Board Director at Hull Street Capital, “Marc Oshima brings extensive industry expertise and deep relationships within our target markets. Babylon Micro-Farms is well-positioned for the future, having just completed a financing round with strong investor commitment.”
With Oshima leading the company and the launch of the Galleri Lite, Babylon Micro-Farms aims to increase access to fresh, locally grown produce across multiple sectors while continuing to develop sustainable indoor farming solutions.
Launch of the Galleri Lite Micro-Farm
On February 6, Babylon Micro-Farms introduced the Galleri Lite Micro-Farm, a hydroponic farming system aimed at expanding access to high-nutrition, farm-to-plate produce with zero food miles.
Key Features of Galleri Lite:
- Affordable alternative to Babylon’s flagship Galleri system.
- Provides fresh, pesticide-free greens on-site.
- Designed for industries including senior living, corporate dining, hospitality, and education.
- Offers strong ROI potential on select crops while promoting healthier food choices.
By lowering the barrier to entry for hydroponic farming, the Galleri Lite aims to make fresh produce more accessible while fostering a deeper connection to nutritious food.
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