Plenty Unlimited’s vertical farms grow lettuce and other vegetables in tall, thin planters, using minimal soil and special lighting instead of sunlight. This indoor farming method eliminates the need for pesticides and allows for year-round cultivation, rather than seasonal growth. According to the company, these vertical farms can yield up to 350 times more produce per acre and reduce water usage by up to 90% compared to traditional farming. While reducing water usage for produce was not explicitly part of 7-Eleven’s sustainability plan, the company has committed to reducing water usage in stores.
A Win for Sustainability and Customer Satisfaction
The partnership with Plenty Unlimited aligns with 7-Eleven’s pivot towards a more food-forward approach in the U.S., mirroring the chain’s operations in Japan. The fresh lettuce program is another step in 7-Eleven’s efforts to innovate and introduce new products. Deanna Hall, senior product director at 7-Eleven, stated that the introduction of Plenty’s produce in California is part of the company’s ongoing evolution of its fresh food offerings to meet customer preferences. Marissa Jarratt, chief marketing and sustainability officer at 7-Eleven, emphasized that the partnership will not only meet customer expectations for quality but also contribute positively to environmental sustainability at scale.
