Following the closure of a facility in Kelowna, BC Tree Fruits has completed enhancements at its Oliver packinghouse. The upgrades, initiated in 2022, now allow the site on Coop Avenue to process a variety of fruits including apples, cherries, peaches, nectarines, prunes, plums, and apricots. The improvements were showcased to local officials on February 23, highlighting the facility's advanced handling and processing capabilities.
BC Tree Fruits facility in Oliver, B.C. / Image: Regional District Okanagan Similkameen
Rick Knodel, representing Area C of the Regional District of Okanagan-Similkameen, commended the facility for its meticulous fruit handling. He emphasized the packinghouse's role in revitalizing the Okanagan's tree fruit sector and enhancing its global market presence.
BC Tree Fruits facility in Oliver, B.C. / Image: Regional District Okanagan Similkameen
Despite not commenting directly, BC Tree Fruits officials disclosed to Global News the renovation's $60 million cost, encompassing new equipment and structural upgrades. Vice-president Craig Ogilvie acknowledged some growers' reservations about the Oliver location but stressed the decision's financial rationale and the company's commitment to proving its merit.
Source: pentictonherald.ca