Farmbrots

This interview details Farmbrots, an indoor farming company based in Spain. The interview is with Oscar Valls, Founder of Farmbrots.

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What is the origin story of Farmbrots?

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The origin of Farmbrots is rooted in a challenging personal moment during the pandemic. At the time, I was facing the harsh reality of witnessing my other businesses in the hotel industry crumble. Faced with the possibility of losing everything I had built over the past decade and like the rest of the world in lockdown, I decided to channel the uncertainty into seeking new ideas with sustainable impact.

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At this crucial moment, marked by personal evolution, I was in search of transformative ideas that connected with my core values. It was no longer about money or business success, as in my early entrepreneurial days; I needed to create and occupy my mind with something meaningful, something that contributed to the change I so desired to see in the world.

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Through this journey, I learned that we are going to be 3 billion more people by 2050. That we are running out of land and that 70% of our planet´s water is used for agriculture. If we don´t do something, we are headed toward a famine. Simultaneously I was moved by Jane Goodall´s message that if we want to create change start within ourselves and our friends and family and community. Enter my curiosity around the vertical farming movement.

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Thus, Farmbrots was born, as a project that goes beyond conventional entrepreneurship, an initiative destined to be part of the sustainable revolution.

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What are some of the major challenges Farmbrots will face in the future?

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First of all, it´s an incredible win that Farmbrots exists and to build a meaningful company that has expanded so quickly is an honor. We also were given the ENISA loan for innovative startups which is also rare and a huge encouragement. After two and a half years to be growing while people are still learning what vertical farming even is… all of this is a huge win. I feel the biggest challenge moving forward is education. Our entire goal is to shift perspective one human at a time and plant the seed: you are what you eat. 

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What makes Farmbrots special compared to the competition?

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Farmbrots has the most extensive catalog of microgreens in the market plus we offer a unique variety of mushrooms. Our commitment to sustainability, local production, and superior quality sets us apart. Located in the center of Barcelona, we can provide fresh products directly to the community. Our diverse offerings position us as a unique choice. We also believe in education.

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Growing a community and a healing space at our HQ and Seed Yoga Studio where people can gather to learn more about vertical farming, and have a shared experience. We aren´t just here to sell. We care about our customers. We want our community to experience the story so that they can pass on the message of clean and intelligent agriculture.

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What are some other relevant metrics for the company (growth area size, production quantity, team size, etc.)?

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Currently, our operation unfolds in a multifunctional space in the heart of Barcelona, encompassing 500 square meters dedicated to production and offices. This space integrates cultivation and office areas, also reserving 120 square meters for workshops and yoga, creating an environment that goes beyond agriculture, and fostering community engagement.

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Our team, composed of 10 passionate professionals, plays a fundamental role in every phase of our operation, from cultivation to delivery. This unique combination of versatile space, sustainable production, and a dedicated team positions us uniquely in the urban agriculture market.

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What are some of Farmbrots' goals for 2024 and beyond?

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For 2024, we have ambitious plans, including a significant expansion of our production capacity. In the coming months, we will launch our new line of derivative products, such as pills, powder, and nutritional shots, here in Spain. This innovative range will not only diversify our offering but also enable us to address a new market, especially through subscriptions to individuals.

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Furthermore, looking to the future, we envision international expansion. In 2024, we aspire to bring the freshness and sustainability of Farmbrots to the United States and beyond, exploring new opportunities and taking our philosophy of sustainable urban farming to a global audience. We are committed to being leaders in the industry, providing fresh and sustainable products to local and international communities.

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How can people connect with you or get more information about Farmbrots?

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To learn more about Farmbrots, you can visit our website at www.farmbrots.com or follow us on our social media @farmbrots / @Seedstudio. We are also open to questions and collaborations; you can contact us directly via comunicacion@farmbrots.com. 

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Additionally, we offer unique experiences for the community, such as workshops and small guided tours, where we share our passion for sustainable urban farming and provide an up-close look at our facilities. We are committed to providing our community with a comprehensive and educational experience.

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