Ever Tru Farms enters the U.S. market with Kentucky greenhouse collaboration

Ever Tru Farms, an Ontario-based indoor hydroponic strawberry farm, is set to debut in the U.S. market with a new venture in Kentucky. 

After acquiring AppHarvest's 30-acre berry farm in Somerset, Ky., Bosch Growers, based in the Netherlands, will partner with Ever Tru Farms to distribute premium strawberries, which will carry the Ever Tru Farms label, according to a news release.

Paul J. Mastronardi, director of sales for Ever Tru Farms, said in the release that the Ever Tru label emphasizes the farm's commitment to cultivating the most-exceptional berries, ensuring an unmatched berry flavor.

"We are excited to introduce locally grown greenhouse strawberries to the U.S. market, with a particular focus on the winter months, although their availability extends well beyond just the winter season,” Mastronardi said in the release. “Cultivating indoors shields us from the adverse effects of harsh natural elements and inclement weather that can disrupt conventional outdoor farming, ensuring a more consistent and reliable supply of high-quality strawberries for retailers and a year-round availability for consumers.”

Bosch Growers is a family-owned and operated, multigenerational enterprise boasting six decades of horticultural expertise, encompassing the cultivation of indoor berries, according to the release.

Wouter van den Bosch of Bosch Growers said in the release that there is a rising need for sustainable farming due to the high demand for strawberries, often grown in open fields and transported by trucks.

"Greenhouse horticulture presents a highly favorable solution, albeit one demanding expertise and unwavering dedication; it's not a one-size-fits-all endeavor," van den Bosch said in the release. "Drawing upon our extensive knowledge and experience, coupled with our trusted network of partners in the Netherlands, we are confident in steering this initiative towards a resounding success."

In addition to meeting the surging demand for strawberries, this collaboration between Ever Tru Farms and Bosch Growers sets the stage for a more sustainable approach to strawberry farming, the release said. By reducing the carbon footprint and food miles, this partnership aims to provide fresh, locally grown strawberries to consumers in the U.S. and Canada, according to the release.

Ever Tru Farms will be attending the International Fresh Produce Association’s 2023 Global Produce & Floral Show to discuss the expansion. For more information, contact Mastronardi at pauljmastronardi@evertrufarms.com.