Kuwait’s NOX Management opens an indoor vertical farm

Kuwait’s NOX Management opens an indoor vertical farm, which is reportedly the first commercial establishment of its kind in the Middle East. The indoor vertical farm is a joint venture between Kuwait’s NOX Management and &Ever Middle East, in partnership with German engineering companies SAP and Viessmann.

Kuwait, a country that previously relied on European and overseas imports for most of their leafy greens and herbs, can now locally grow up to 250 varieties of greens and herbs using Dryponics technology. The facility, with approximately 32,290 sqft of faming space, has a daily output capacity of up to 550 kg of salad, herbs and cresses. The products are available in all leading retailers and cooperatives under the brand name &ever Kuwait.

Also read: Smart Acres aims to improve food security in the UAE

The farm produces high-quality and sustainable crops indoors, which increase the nutritional quality and decrease environmental impact. The cutting-edge vertical farming method uses 90% less water compared to traditional farming, 60% less fertilizer and zero pesticides. Using a sustainable “farm to fork” model, the technology is able to preserve the plants’ nutritional value until the produce reaches the customer.

“Previously, Kuwait’s restaurants imported all of our greens and herbs, mainly from Europe,” said Faisal AlMeshal, director of strategy and business development, NOX Management. “Our JV with &ever and the partnership with SAP and Viessmann on this indoor farm is enabling the local farming supply chain to save on costs and logistics, minimise waste and make a better choice for the planet. Our customers will have enhanced experiences with tastier and fresher produce.”

As Kuwait’s NOX Management opens an indoor vertical farm, the joint venture complements Kuwait and Germany’s trade ties. Bilateral trade is €1.3 billion, and Germany’s private sector invests €14.6 billion in Kuwait, according to Germany’s Federal Foreign Office.

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