The Norfolk Fruit Growers’ Association apples are to be marketed exclusively by Vineland Growers’ Co-operative beginning in 2019, according to an agreement announced February 14, 2019.

Looking to build on more than 100 years of servicing its growers, Vineland Growers’ Co-operative Limited, Canada’s leading shippers of stone fruit, grapes and pears, has entered into a marketing agreement with The Norfolk Fruit Growers’ Association, one of Ontario’s premier apple packers.     

Starting with the 2019 harvest, Vineland Growers’ Co-operative Limited will become the exclusive marketer for The Norfolk Fruit Growers’ Association’s fresh apple program.  The agreement makes Vineland Growers’ the most diverse supplier of freshly grown Ontario fruit through its marketing of peaches, nectarines, apricots, cherries, grapes, pears and apples. 

“We are extremely excited to see two of the longest operating fruit organizations in Canada working together to better meet the changing demands of our customers,” said Mike Ecker, president, Vineland Growers’ Co-operative Limited. “This is an agreement that just makes sense. The industry is becoming increasingly competitive and the need to create scale within the two businesses will help to service the needs of our growers, packers and customers.” 

“The members and staff at The Norfolk Fruit Growers’ Association look forward to this new venture with Vineland Growers’ as an excellent method to continue the service to members and customers as they enter their 113th apple crop,” added Tom O’Neill, general manager, The Norfolk Fruit Growers’ Association.

Apples grown and packed by Norfolk Fruit Growers’ Association will continue to be marketed under the Norfolk brand.

Source: Vineland Growers’ Co-operative Ltd. and Norfolk Fruit Growers’ Association, Feb. 14, 2019 joint news release