BC Tree Fruits expected to thrive under new leadership
BC Tree Fruits expected to thrive under new leadership
In a bold and promising move for the future of British Columbia’s fruit industry, the Supreme Court of British Columbia approved the purchase of the remaining South Okanagan assets of BC Tree Fruits by Wildstone Capital Ltd. The BC Tree Fruits name will remain, preserving its deep-rooted brand equity and significance across western Canada. The transaction is expected to close May 30.
Wildstone is a family-owned Penticton, BC-based corporation that is strategically partnered with a local investor group and Algoma Orchards, one of Canada’s largest independent apple growers. Under Algoma’s leadership, the Oliver packing plant will soon be re-started to accept local fruit. In addition to re-starting the Oliver plant, the partners will operate the receiving facilities in Summerland and Keremeos. This marks a significant milestone for growers and the agricultural community across the Okanagan Valley and the province at large.
“Acquiring BC Tree Fruits is a milestone we’re incredibly proud of — not just as a business decision, but as a commitment to the farmers and communities who have shaped BC’s fruit industry for generations. With Algoma Orchards and the Kemp family as our operational partner, we’re investing in a stronger, more resilient future for BC-grown fruit," said Mark Melissen, president and CEO of Wildstone.
“This is an incredibly exciting chapter for our business and for BC growers. I’ve been growing apples for 50 years, and it’s an honor to help restore strength and stability for farming families in the Okanagan, many of whom faced uncertainty when BC Tree Fruits announced it would be winding down," said Kirk Kemp, president of Algoma Orchards.
"BC Tree Fruits has a storied legacy in Western Canada," said Kemp. "While it’s seen challenges in recent years, we believe we’re bringing the right formula for a strong comeback — one that has already proven successful at Algoma Orchards: an unwavering focus on grower partnerships, best-in-class quality, unbeatable taste and constant innovation. This is what excites our retail partners — and ultimately, consumers.”
