Metrolina Greenhouses and South Central Growers have announced a merger, effective January 1, 2026, uniting two established greenhouse operations to accelerate growth, expand capabilities, and strengthen service to retail partners. The combined organization will operate under the Metrolina Greenhouses brand.
Metrolina Greenhouses, based in Huntersville, N.C., with operations in York, S.C., and South Central Growers, based in Springfield, Tenn., have a long history of collaboration and aligned operating philosophies. Together, the companies will form a growth-focused organization designed to respond to evolving customer expectations and increasing industry complexity.
"At its core, this merger is about growth," said Abe VanWingerden, CEO of Metrolina Greenhouses. "Growth allows us to invest more, serve customers better, and create more opportunities for our people. This partnership enables us to grow faster and smarter by bringing together two highly aligned teams."
A strategic response to industry change
Despite strong consumer demand for live goods, the horticulture industry continues to experience consolidation driven by rising capital requirements, operational complexity, and heightened customer expectations. Leaders from both companies said the merger represents a proactive response to these complex dynamics.
"The industry is changing rapidly, and consolidation isn't slowing down," said Alex Van Der Hengst, CEO of South Central Growers. "We're passionate about this business and wanted a path that allows us to continue operating, growing, and investing at a higher level. This merger gives us that opportunity while keeping our leadership team deeply involved."
© Metrolina Growers / South Central GrowersAlex Van Der Hengst (left) and Abe VanWingerden (right)
Under the agreement, South Central Growers' ownership group will become shareholders in Metrolina Greenhouses, and its leadership team will remain active in operations and strategic growth.
"This is not an exit – it's an opportunity," Van Der Hengst said. "By combining leadership, systems, and scale, we can grow faster together than either company could independently."
Continuity for customers, expanded capabilities
Retail partners can expect continuity in day-to-day operations, customer leadership teams, and quality standards. The merger is designed to build upon existing customer relationships while accelerating capabilities.
"Our customer model isn't changing," VanWingerden said. "What changes is speed and scale – expanded ship lanes, faster replenishment, fresher product, and broader solutions executed more efficiently."
In addition to physical growth, the combined organization will pursue opportunities across omnichannel retail, including direct-to-consumer, buy-online-pick-up-in-store, and other emerging fulfillment models, as well as expanded product categories.
Growth through scale, not cost-cutting
Leadership emphasized that the merger is not driven by reductions. Both companies operate lean, efficient organizations, and growth – rather than cost-cutting – is the primary driver of efficiencies.
"You don't cut your way to growth and profitability; you grow your way there," VanWingerden said. "By combining talent, systems, and scale, efficiencies emerge naturally as the business expands."
Commitment to employees and communities
All employees from both organizations will be integrated into the combined company, with greenhouse site leadership and customer teams remaining intact.
"What changes is the expanded level of support, systems, and opportunity around the team," Van Der Hengst said. "One of the most exciting parts of this merger is what it means for our people; it opens the door for them to step into bigger roles, develop new skill sets, and have a broader impact within a larger organization."
"By creating a larger, tech-powered, people-driven organization, we open up more roles, more career paths, and more opportunities," VanWingerden said. Not every next-generation leader has to be the CEO or COO, and that's a healthier model for long-term sustainability."
Both companies also reaffirmed their commitment to community engagement and charitable involvement across all operating regions.
"This merger allows us to deepen our investment in the communities where we operate," VanWingerden added. "Strong businesses and strong communities go hand in hand."
Following the merger, Abe VanWingerden will serve as Chief Executive Officer of Metrolina Greenhouses. Art VanWingerden will take on the role of Chief Operating Officer, overseeing supply chain, horticulture, and site management, while Alex Van Der Hengst will serve as Chief Revenue Officer. Michael VanWingerden will be the Chief Operating Officer responsible for labor and logistics, and Thomas VanWingerden will serve as the Chief Operating Officer for operations. Ron Van Der Hengst will assume the role of Chief Operating Officer for the Springfield site, with Tim Van Der Hengst serving as Chief Growing Officer for the Springfield site. The remainder of the Executive Leadership Team will continue in their current roles.
For more information:
Metrolina Greenhouses 
Tel. +1 (704)-875-1371
metrolinagreenhouses.com/
South Central Growers
Tel: +1(615) 384-2366
southcentralgrowers.com/
