#117: Eliminating The ‘Middle Mile’ In Food Distribution with Relocalize

Jul 8, 2025

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In this episode of Earthlings 2.0, we connect with Wayne McIntyre, CEO of Relocalize, about how autonomous microfactories placed at distribution centers could revolutionize food production by eliminating transport emissions and reducing costs. They explore why packaged ice was the ideal starting point for helping this idea become reality, how robotics and AI streamline operations to make decentralized food production and distribution possible, and why reimagining the entire supply chain, not just improving individual links, is critical for building a more sustainable and resilient food system.

Key Points:

Food Supply Chains Are a Major Climate Contributor: Nearly 18% of food-related greenhouse gas emissions come from packaging, transport, and processing — underscoring the need to rethink how food gets from farm to plate.
Relocalize Pioneers Autonomous Microfactories: By installing small, fully automated factories at distribution centers, Relocalize eliminates most transportation and cold storage, reducing emissions and costs.
Better Economics and Sustainability for Retailers: Retailers benefit from dedicated supply, lower shrink and waste, reduced emissions, and better product quality — all while improving their bottom line.

Voices on The Show:

Wayne McIntyre, CEO and co-founder of Relocalize, LinkedIn
Luis de Leon, Senior Account Executive at Technica Communications, LinkedIn

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