Thanet Earth sixth glasshouse

Salad veg giant Thanet Earth has confirmed that a sixth glasshouse will be constructed and is expected to be operational in less than six months.

The news comes just weeks after tomato production began in Thanet’s recently-completed fifth glasshouse.

With the first works taking place this week, the sixth glasshouse will produce a mix of speciality tomatoes for UK retailers, adding “significant” volume to Thanet’s annual production. The first production from the new glasshouse is expected in October.

This latest glasshouse will be thermally linked to the others in a new development designed to make the site even more energy-efficient by moving heat between glasshouses.

Sodium lights throughout the glasshouse will ensure production is 52-weeks as a continuation of Thanet’s year-round tomato offer. Other features include rainwater capture and biological pest control while jobs at Thanet Earth will rise to around 830.

Thanet Earth managing director Des Kingsley said: “Adding more capacity for British-grown speciality tomato production will make Thanet Earth an even stronger partner for our retail customers.

“Their consumers are huge supporters of UK-grown products and the demand for British produce is expected to increase. The Thanet Earth name is well-known and respected in this regard. This additional 52-week production of British tomatoes will be a very welcome boost to retail shelves.”