CINCINATTI — The Kroger Co. is growing produce on site. The company announced a new partnership with Infarm, an urban farming network, to bring modular living produce farms to several locations in Washington.

The deal includes two Seattle-area stores with plans for a dozen more next year. The in-store farming technology will provide customers with access to fresh greens that are priced at or below Kroger’s existing store-brand produce, the company said. It also allows the retailer to bolster its sustainability claims, since the farms eliminate the need for extended transportation and storage.

The partnership is the first of its kind in the United States for Infarm. The Germany-based start-up has more than 500 farms in stores and distribution centers across Europe. 

 “Kroger believes that everyone deserves to have access to fresh, affordable and delicious food, no matter who you are, how you shop or what you like to eat,” said Suzy Monford, group vice-president of Kroger’s fresh division. “Our partnership with Infarm allows us to innovate by combining groundbreaking in-store farming technology with our passion for fresh, local produce and ecological sourcing. Kroger is excited to be first to market and offer the best of the season, and we're proud to lead the U.S. on this journey.”