The biggest greenhouse complex in Russia, Agro-Invest, has launched the fourth phase of greenhouses in the Kaluga region and has started the construction of the fifth one. Kaluga governor's recently paid a visit to the enterprise, reports the regional government press service. In 2016, HortiDaily reported on this huge greenhouse project.
“The company has constructed four phases of greenhouse for year-round cultivation of vegetables. The investor is planning to make the area a major agricultural center. However, for that certain staffing issues must be tackled. Having made a positive conclusion on the development perspective of the complex, the governor, Mr. Anatoliy Artamonov, has suggested to arrange a special training center in order to meet the enterprise’s needs in qualified employees”, reported the press service.
The latest technologies in plant lighting have been applied in the greenhouses. They grow exclusive varieties of tomatoes for the Russian market; the assortment has been enlarged with plum and yellow cherry tomatoes. Now they also grow pear cherry tomatoes with an orange color.
As was reported earlier, Agro-Invest is additionally investing 38.6 million euros in the expansion, the initial investments in the project were increased from 167.4 million euros to 203.5 million euros.
In 2018, the company will complete the construction of all greenhouses and will start producing fresh vegetables at full capacity. By the end of 2018, the overall acreage will comprise 112.5 ha. The enterprise is planning to expand the distribution area and to begin selling produce in the Ural federal district.
It is expected that when the enterprise starts working at full production capacity, the company share will reach 15% of the whole market of the Central Federal District.
Source: mkkaluga.ru