CMI Orchards, a grower-packer-shipper of apple, pear and cherries, said it has expanded its growing regions to now include the Yakima Valley, Hood River and The Dalles in the Pacific Northwest as well as acres in the Columbia Basin and Wenatchee Valley, following the closure of Sage Fruit Co.
The company said as part of this closure it has added Chelan Fruit, Legacy Fruit and Pacific Coast Cherry Packers to its packing facilities, which will increase its apple and cherry volumes.
The company also announced its cherry-packing operations will return to Yakima, Wash., after many years. The facility is situated near southern Washington orchards and will enhance its operational efficiency and quality control and increase access to the region’s cherry supply.
CMI Orchard said the addition of Sage Fruit partners in Yakima bolsters its regional distribution network. The company also said with this acquisition, it handles nearly half the total SugarBee apple crop.
“As we grow, our commitment to quality and long-term partnerships remains unwavering,” said Bob Mast, president of CMI Orchards. “We’re thrilled to welcome three new team members from Sage Fruit: Kaci Komstadius, Doug Hearron and Rich Mendonza, whose experience and expertise will further elevate our service and capabilities.”
CMI Orchards said it will relocate its corporate headquarters to a new facility at the Confluence Technology Center in Wenatchee in late April.
