CEA Strawberries Show Strong Market Potential in U.S. South Central Region
April 3, 2026 
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An interdisciplinary research team led by Nathan Howell (West Texas A&M University) and collaborators from Texas A&M AgriLife and Texas Tech University is evaluating how CEA can expand strawberry production in the south central U.S.
According to the authors, U.S. strawberry consumption reached approximately 1.24 billion kg in 2024, underscoring strong, year-round demand. However, today’s supply chain remains heavily dependent on seasonal field production concentrated in California and Florida, requiring long-distance transportation and high inputs.
The researchers point to a clear opportunity for CEA growers: price volatility. As shown in the article’s price data, strawberry prices peak in December and January when supply is limited, then fall sharply in summer. For growers able to produce locally during the October–February window using protected systems, the revenue potential is significant.
CEA Advantages and the Barriers to Scale
Controlled environment systems — including high tunnels, greenhouses, and indoor farms — offer clear production advantages. These include improved yields, better water and nutrient efficiency, and the ability to extend seasons and improve fruit quality. Even relatively low-tech solutions like high tunnels can advance harvest timing and reduce frost risk in the region.
But scaling CEA strawberry production in the U.S. remains complex. The report highlights a structural gap: While low-tech tunnel systems dominate globally, they are labor-intensive and may not translate well economically to U.S. conditions. Meanwhile, higher-tech greenhouse and indoor systems require significant capital investment and face ongoing energy cost pressures.
The authors also emphasize a knowledge gap around optimal production systems, cultivar performance, and environmental control strategies for strawberries under CEA conditions.
Technology and Research will Determine Viability
Looking ahead, the research points to automation, sensor networks, and AI-driven tools (such as computer vision and digital twins) as critical enablers for scaling indoor strawberry production. Early yield benchmarks (around 2 lb/ft² for certain cultivars) suggest strong upside potential with further optimization. Still, profitability will hinge on balancing energy costs with productivity gains.
You can read the authors’ full report here.