B.C. Tree Fruits has inked a new agreement with Vancouver-based Lonetree Cider Company, which creates a new avenue for Okanagan fruit growers.
Under the deal, BCTF will become Lonetree’s leading supplier of 100 per cent B.C. produced apple wine, as an augment to Lonetree’s current production and supply sources.
“We developed Lonetree ciders from a desire to create an authentic, extra dry cider style as an alternative to the highly sweetened, flavoured ciders that have previously dominated in the province,” said Bruce Dean LoneTree owner.
“A relationship with B.C.’s largest fruit grower co-operative is a natural fit as our business grows and we look to expand into other markets.”
The agreement aligns with B.C. Tree Fruits’ mandate to support grower families who often need a value- add market for fruit not destined for the fresh retail market, says Alan Tyabji, BCTF chief executive officer.
“We couldn’t be more pleased than to expand upon our business with a B.C. based cider producer who shares our values and wishes to work with us to raise the standards for the B.C. cider industry,” he said.
The B.C. Tree Fruits Co-Operative represents 500 grower families in the Okanagan-Similkameen, including Vernon and Coldstream.
