The Star Group, via its Consolidated Fruit Packers (CFP) division, announced it will partner with Harker’s Organics, a fifth-generation, family-owned farm and organics wholesaler, to market and distribute certified organic Okanagan and Similkameen tree fruit across Canada and to international export markets.
“We are thrilled to team up with such a tremendous partner in Harker’s, as well as with its talented and dedicated growers,” said Dariel Trottier, president of CFP. “The market for organics is strong. People around the world are looking for delicious, B.C.-grown fruit and we are very pleased to add this produce into the mix.”
The marketing and distribution partnership will focus on the grower’s apples, pears, squash, potatoes and stone fruit.
“With distribution centers in all three western provinces and the added capabilities of Star’s teams, this partnership allows us to drive far more business impact for our customers and create efficiencies for our farmers,” said Harker’s owner Troy Harker. “Together, working as one team, we will bring our sectors and knowledge together, placing our customers on the best path for success in domestic tree fruit supply and adding security to the Canadian food system.”
“This collaboration supports our mandate to create economically sustainable agriculture and business practices by creating a secure, sustainable food system. This will help ensure the future of multi-generational organic farms,” said Sara Harker, co-owner of Harker’s Organics. “By partnering and benefitting from Star’s expertise, technologies and logistics infrastructure, we can enhance the value, consistency and time-to-market that customers expect from our team of amazing growers.”
The two organizations will begin working together for the 2023 growing season.
“Our core values are passion, persistence and teamwork,” said Trottier. “We truly believe these values are shared by the whole Harker's family. We look forward to working together to bring their produce to customers across Canada and around the world.”
For more information:
Carey Tufts
The Star Group
marketing@starproduce.com
http://starproduce.com