BC Tree Fruits, a cooperative with a storied history dating back to 1936, is writing another chapter with guaranteed prices to apple growers for the next three years. For 270 grower families, the announcement offers security for a sector that’s struggled with competitive pressures in recent years.

Right-sizing the business with surplus properties and packinghouses put $31.25 million in the coffers, allowing for debt paydown and investments in the future.

The Cooperative is expanding on a program launched in 2020 by providing minimum payment guarantees to growers on a wide range of varieties, grades and sizes of apples for the next three years.

“Our Apple Income Assurance Program provides apple growers with a minimum guaranteed price return which gives them confidence to invest in the crop inputs and labour required to grow the fruit that consumers are looking for,” said Warren Sarafinchan, president and CEO.  “A program of this nature has never been offered in the tree fruit industry but is a very clear indication that the Cooperative is placing local growers first to cultivate a prosperous future for the industry.” 

The guaranteed minimum payments will begin in the fall of 2022. The schedule has not been released for competitive reasons. No government funds are involved.

Source:  BC Tree Fruits Cooperative July 5, 2022 news release