As Oppy continues looking for increased efficiencies and partnerships across its operations, the grower has brought together two top cherry brands, Katicich Ranch and Brookside, to form Katco Packing.
Katco Packing, located in Stockton, California, will see numerous operational efficiencies, particularly in packing, with Unitec optical sorting machinery bringing increased accuracy and speed to their boutique brands. As a grower, marketer and distributor of fresh produce from around the world, Oppy will take on a strategic role in the new venture, where it is deeply involved with both partners.
Oppy is bringing together Brookside and Katicich Ranch to form Katco Packing.
“Oppy has a long history in the California cherry deal and through this move, looks to streamline operations even further to grow our offerings in line with demand,” said James Milne, Oppy’s senior vice-president, categories and marketing. “The move enables greater transparency, a deeper understanding of how the fruit will be looked after as well as 360-degree logistical support.”
Katco Packing will primarily offer high-grade Bing and Coral cherries from Katicich Ranch and the Brookside label, with the latter slated for domestic and international markets while the Katicich brand will target exports. Combined with Oppy’s Pacific Northwest cherry program under the Orchard View Cherry brand, the grower now offers the fruit from May through to the end of August, supplying retailers nine months of the year thanks to their import program as well.
“We’re incredibly excited with this step as we realize the many advantages of aligning even more closely with partners such as Oppy,” says Matt P. Katicich III, Katicich Ranch’s general manager. “As the cherry category continues to grow every year, there are more opportunities to tap into, which is what we hope to achieve with Katco Packing.”
This investment (along with its import program) helps Oppy offer cherries from May through to the end of August.
Oppy’s investment means earlier involvement on a key operational level, which in turn will provide retailers with support for the labels. As family businesses at heart, the two brands will benefit from increased precision thanks to the high-tech sorting lines, offering one another benefits such as reducing production costs, while simultaneously managing logistical challenges.
“We are already working closely with Oppy and Katicich Farms so this was the next logical step to grow our business,” Greg Costa, partner at Felix Costa & Sons said. “The Brookside label is known for its cherries at home and abroad, and by combining our strengths, we can offer this fruit to a wider range of customers while maintaining quality.”
Oppy’s move further augments its transition to the Pacific Northwest deal, which had a strong season in 2020. Katco Packing is also looking to add other grower partners to its growing program.
For more information:
Shrief Fadl
Oppy
Tel: +1 (604) 461-6779
Shrief.Fadl@oppy.com
www.oppy.com