Berry Fresh says it is increasing its Oregon blueberry production through a new owned and operated farm, advancing the company’s plan to strengthen year-round supply of premium proprietary varieties. The investment expands its domestic program while providing retailers with greater continuity of supply, exceptional eating quality and strong shelf life, according to the company.
Development of the new Oregon farm is underway, building on Berry Fresh’s existing plantings in the region. Located close to Berry Fresh’s North Fork farm, the new farm will focus exclusively on proprietary genetics. As a vertically integrated grower, Berry Fresh manages the process from varietal selection and farming through harvest, packing and marketing, providing greater control over quality and consistency from farm to customer.
“Investing in our own farms has been central to our growth from the beginning,” says Jorge Varela, CEO of AgroBerries, Berry Fresh’s parent company. “Combining owned production with access to leading proprietary genetics gives us greater control over supply. Our investment in Oregon builds on that foundation and strengthens our ability to deliver differentiated varieties to customers year-round.”
Initial plantings will include Sekoya Crunch, Sekoya Nova and Sekoya Fiesta alongside trials of additional proprietary varieties as Berry Fresh evaluates future commercial plantings for the region. The company’s expanding genetics portfolio also includes its recently announced licensing relationship with Mountain Blue Orchards, broadening access to premium blueberry genetics for North American production. As the Oregon program matures, Berry Fresh plans to introduce additional proprietary varieties suited to the region and extend availability of premium blueberries through the key North American summer window.
Berry Fresh’s Oregon investment extends beyond blueberries. The company says it is also tripling its Sweet Karoline blackberry plantings in the region as part of its plan to increase summer availability and extend the season between its farms in Mexico and Oregon. Known for its exceptional flavor and consistent eating quality, Sweet Karoline supports Berry Fresh’s plan to grow consumer demand for blackberries while providing retailers with a more reliable premium summer offering, according to the company.
“Oregon is the cornerstone of our domestic blueberry program, and this expansion reflects our confidence in the region and our plan to make our Oregon farms a center of excellence for premium genetics,” says Darren Sinn, vice president of operations and supply chain for Berry Fresh, who works closely with the company’s Oregon farming operations. “By continuing to invest in proprietary varieties and our own farms, we can build a more reliable year-round supply program for our customers while delivering an exceptional eating experience for consumers.”
