OLIVER, BC – Effective April 2025 – In a bold and promising move for the future of British Columbia’s fruit industry, Algoma Orchards, Canada’s largest independent apple grower, will assume operations of BC Tree Fruits. This marks a significant milestone for growers and the agricultural community across the Okanagan Valley and the province at large.

Through a strategic partnership with a local investor group, led by Wildstone Capital of Penticton BC, Algoma Orchards is investing in the region by re-establishing the state of the art, 200,000 sq. ft. storage and packing facility in Oliver, BC and re-opening the fruit storage facilities in Keremeos and Summerland. With full operational autonomy, Algoma will collaborate directly with local growers, bringing fresh energy, proven expertise, and a renewed sense of purpose to the valley’s iconic fruit industry.

“This is an incredibly exciting chapter for our business and for BC growers,” said Kirk Kemp, President of Algoma Orchards. “I’ve been growing apples for 50 years, and it’s an honour 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.”

Kemp is clear-eyed and confident about the road ahead.

“BC Tree Fruits has a storied legacy in Western Canada. 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.”

Importantly, the BC Tree Fruits name will remain, preserving its deep-rooted brand equity and significance across Western Canada.

About Algoma Orchards:
A proud fourth-generation farm based in Newcastle, Ontario, Algoma Orchards is the nation’s largest independent apple grower, the leading producer of organic apples, and the largest fresh cider supplier in Canada. Their expansion into the Okanagan signals a long-term commitment to revitalizing the BC fruit industry and ensuring a bright, sustainable future for generations of growers to come.