Title: Kelowna’s Farming Karma Partners with Novem to Secure Grower Storage Amid BC Tree Fruit Closure
Summary:
In the wake of BC Tree Fruit’s sudden closure, which left local farmers without storage facilities, Kelowna’s Farming Karma has stepped in to secure storage for local producers. The orchard and sparkling juice company, known for its commitment to waste reduction, has entered into a partnership with Novem, a firm specializing in agricultural product processing and storage. This move comes as a result of the former BC Tree Fruit facility on Sexsmith Road in Kelowna now being under Novem’s control. Novem has also submitted a purchase offer for the property, subject to court approval.
Key Points:
– Farming Karma has secured storage for local farmers following the closure of BC Tree Fruit.
– The company has partnered with Novem, which now possesses the former BC Tree Fruit facility.
– Novem has applied for the purchase of the property and is awaiting court approval.
– BC Tree Fruit, a cooperative with nearly a century of history, closed suddenly due to challenging conditions and financial difficulties.
Background:
BC Tree Fruit, a cooperative that has been in operation for nearly nine decades, announced on July 25 that it would no longer accept produce from farmers. The closure came as a shock to the farming community, as it occurred in the middle of the growing season. The cooperative cited challenging growing conditions, low fruit estimates, and difficult market and financial conditions as the reasons for the closure. Following the announcement, BC Tree Fruit applied for creditor protection, and all assets, including storage facilities, were frozen.
Farming Karma’s Response:
Farming Karma, recognizing the urgent need for storage solutions, has moved swiftly to secure access to the former BC Tree Fruit storage facility. The company has entered into an emergency lease with Novem, ensuring that local farmers have a place to store their produce. This move is in line with Farming Karma’s motto of finding a home for every apple, reflecting its commitment to reducing waste and supporting local agriculture.
Novem’s Role:
Novem, which specializes in processing and storing agricultural products and pharmaceuticals, has taken possession of the former BC Tree Fruit facility. The company has expressed interest in purchasing the property, which is currently subject to court approval. This acquisition would further solidify Novem’s presence in the agricultural storage sector and provide a stable solution for local farmers.
Conclusion:
The partnership between Farming Karma and Novem represents a crucial step in addressing the immediate needs of local farmers in the wake of BC Tree Fruit’s closure. As Novem awaits court approval for the purchase of the former BC Tree Fruit property, the secure storage facilities will continue to play a vital role in supporting the local agricultural community.
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