IGA, a U.S. grocery store chain that operates around the world, recently announced that its St. Laurent Montreal location will feature an urban garden on its rooftop.
The rooftop garden will grow 30 varieties of organic product that will include a multitude of standard produce options, including "lettuce, tomatoes, peppers and herbs." It will also include eight beehives, which will likely produce 600 jars of honey. At 25,000 square feet, this is the "largest organic rooftop garden in Canada," and will sell at the same price as other organic items the grocery store sources from external distributors.
As urban farming becomes increasingly necessary, brands like IGA are working to adopt this important form of gardening into their offerings.
Rooftop Grocer Gardens
The Grocery Store IGA Has Introduced a Rooftop Garden
Trend Themes
1. Urban Farming - IGA's introduction of a rooftop garden highlights the growing trend of urban farming in the grocery industry.
2. Sustainable Agriculture - The rooftop garden supports the trend towards sustainable agriculture by providing organic produce and honey to customers.
3. Local Sourcing - IGA's rooftop garden offers an opportunity for the grocery store to strengthen its commitment to local sourcing and reduce reliance on external distributors.
Industry Implications
1. Grocery - The introduction of rooftop gardens in grocery stores presents an opportunity for the industry to offer fresh, locally grown produce to customers.
2. Agriculture - The adoption of urban farming techniques, like rooftop gardens, can revolutionize the way crops are grown, harvested, and distributed.
3. Sustainability - Rooftop gardens can contribute to the sustainability goals of various industries, including food and agriculture, by reducing carbon footprints and promoting eco-friendly practices.