Emmi Roth – Project Delta

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Sustainability is at the heart of the new Emmi Roth conversion facility and headquarters in Stoughton.

Emmi Roth’s Net Zero by 2050 vision dictated multiple parts of the 158,000-square-foot project, including a 60,000-square-foot high-capacity refrigerated storage space.

“The commitment to sustainability, which is no small feat given that this is a large production and storage facility with high climate-control demands, really stood out on this project,” said Menno Huiser, a senior project manager with Findorff.

The facility is 100% electric, including the HVAC systems and hot water supply. Huiser said the facility is currently powered by green energy procured through the local municipality. By the end of this year, up to 45% of the plant’s energy consumption will be generated by a photovoltaic array on the building roof.

Another sustainability initiative was using embodied carbon, which yielded a 34% reduction over the regional benchmark for concrete-related carbon emissions.

“Sustainably sourced building materials, such as wood from local, fallen ash trees, and a concrete mix with fewer carbon emissions also contributed to a smaller carbon footprint,” Huiser said.

In designing the building, offices, work and break areas were put on the perimeter so the spaces could maximize the use of natural light, which not only helps lower energy costs but also creates a healthier environment for employees. Storage rooms and back-of-house support spaces, including restrooms, were put in the building’s interior.

The Emmi Roth facility also uses high-bay pallet racking, which required “super flat” floors. Through careful planning and partnering with the concrete supplier and concrete pump contractor, Findorff’s cement finishing crew used the latest technology to place and finish the 9-inch slab on grade. As a result, the team poured the flattest floor in the company’s history.