In a bold and promising move for the future of British Columbia’s fruit industry, the Supreme Court of BC approved on May 16, 2025 the purchase of the remaining South Okanagan assets of BC Tree Fruits by Wildstone Capital Ltd. 

Wildstone, is a family-owned Penticton-based corporation, who is strategically partnered with a local investor group and Algoma Orchards, Canada’s largest independent apple grower. 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,” says Mark Melissen, president and CEO, Wildstone Group of Companies. “With Algoma Orchards and the Kemp family as our operational partner, we’re investing in a stronger, more resilient future for BC-grown fruit.”

“This is an incredibly exciting chapter for our business and for BC growers,” says Kirk Kemp, president, 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.

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. The transaction is expected to close May 30, 2025.

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. Its 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.

About the Wildstone Group:

A family-owned group of companies, headquartered in Penticton, BC with operations in construction, real estate development, ready-mix concrete and environmental services. 

Source:  Algoma Orchards May 16, 2025 news release