AppHarvest launched with fanfare in Kentucky, with the governor and state officials praising the ambitious indoor “controlled environment” ag projects envisioned by the company as a game-changer. Webb was the face of the project in national appearances, like one on CNBC in 2019.
"We need to talk about bringing food production home regionally, and absolutely the economic benefits of that, building here at home, growing here at home," he told show hosts. "But it's not just Eastern Kentucky. It could be all across the country, but certainly the eastern part of state is mobilizing and wants to lead the charge."
But in recent years, AppHarvest has hit a number of road bumps, including cutting sales projections, supply chain-related delays, a foreclosure action against its 60-acre farm in Richmond, and a lease dispute with its exclusive distributor, according to the Commonwealth Journal.
The latest change – Webb will no longer be CEO or chairman of the board of AppHarvest, though he will reportedly be staying on as chief strategy officer and keep a seat on the board of directors. COO Tony Martin will step into the CEO role.
Despite expected losses between $67 and $76 million this year, AppHarvest’s new chairman, Kevin Willis, said Webb’s vision has helped set a new standard in sustainable farming.
