Cal Poly is set to open a new farm store in collaboration with Driscoll’s, a California-based berry seller.
On Oct. 14, a university press release announced that Driscoll’s would pledge $5 million to fund a new farm store on campus to enrich agriculture programs and create a “vibrant campus hub for innovation.” This project will provide more real-world learning opportunities for students in the College of Agriculture, Food and Environmental Sciences (CAFES).
The release emphasizes that students will gain “practical experience in growing, producing, marketing and selling campus-made products, while engaging in applied research and retail innovation.”
Construction for Driscoll’s building will begin in 2026 as part of the ongoing Plant Sciences Complex project, which began in Nov. 2023 with the goal of centralizing Cal Poly’s food and agriculture products. The six-acre facility is set to feature a new classroom and lab, production greenhouses, a produce packing and cooling facility as well as the farm store, according to the CAFES website.
“Support from industry partners like Driscoll’s enables us to provide students with real-world learning experiences that prepare them to meet the challenges of an ever-evolving agricultural landscape ahead,” Brian Horgan, dean of the College of Agriculture, Food and Environmental Sciences said in the release.
The farm store will also make fresh produce available for purchase on campus to students and faculty.
“We look forward to seeing our investment transform into a unique learning space where students can gain vital experience in an actual retail environment,” Brie Smith, the Vice Chair of Driscoll’s and Cal Poly alumna said in the release.
Located at the corner of Highland Avenue and Mt. Bishop Road, the farm store will open to the public in 2027.