Stemilt Growers is often regarded as one of the premier fruit grower and packing companies in the United States. Founded over six decades ago by Tom Mathison in the rich agricultural region of Wenatchee, Washington, the company has evolved significantly. Today, the Mathison legacy continues under the guidance of Tom’s grandsons, West and Tate, alongside his son, Kyle. This multi-generational leadership not only symbolizes the family’s deep-rooted heritage in farming but also represents their adaptability in an ever-changing agricultural landscape.
The beginnings of this family-run business can be traced back to 1893 when the Mathisons began homesteading in Washington State. By 1914, they had established their first orchard, growing apples, pears, and cherries. The journey was not always smooth; after the tragic passing of Tom’s father in a farm accident, young Tom took on the responsibility of the family farm. Facing several challenges, he discovered that effective post-harvest practices and quality control could be the keys to survival. This led to the formation of Stemilt Growers in 1964, marking the transition from struggling farmer to a respected name in the fruit industry.
One of the groundbreaking changes that Stemilt implemented was taking control of its entire supply chain, which allowed for enhanced quality assurance. This strategic move elevated the company’s reputation as a reliable provider of high-quality fruit, making them formidable players in a competitive market. Stemilt now manages fruit from approximately 20,000 acres, blending land owned by the company, managed lands, and partnerships with local growers. This extensive operation includes a wide array of fruits, particularly apples, cherries, pears, and various stone fruits.
The evolution of technology played a pivotal role in transforming the apple industry, an area where Stemilt has been particularly proactive. The advent of Controlled Atmosphere Storage in the 1960s modernized apple preservation, allowing for year-round availability. This technology enhanced the transition from a seasonally available fruit to a staple commodity that could compete with tropical fruits, such as bananas. In the late 1990s, Stemilt further refined its storage methods with SmartFresh™ technology, resulting in even better flavor and texture in their apples.
Despite impressive advancements, the apple industry is not without its difficulties. The infamous “Alar Scare” in 1989 severely impacted consumer perception and trust. Environmental advocacy groups raised concerns regarding the safety of a plant growth regulator used on apples, leading to a significant drop in sales and revenue for the apple sector. Although subsequent investigations disproved the claims, the damage was done, resulting in approximately $100 million lost in revenue.
In light of this crisis, many growers, including Stemilt, adapted their strategies by diversifying apple varieties—what can be seen as a budding renaissance in the apple sector. Retailers soon discovered that offering a wider selection could boost sales. Consequently, variety became a hallmark of competition, with popular varieties such as Rave®, Cosmic Crisp, and proprietary brands like Lil Snappers® capturing consumer interest.
As the industry continues to evolve, grower challenges remain. One significant issue stems from labor shortages caused by complex immigration policies. Fruit harvesting, particularly for delicate crops like apples and cherries, relies heavily on manual labor. To address this, Stemilt is actively involved with initiatives like CiertoGlobal.Org, which focuses on providing training, housing, and competitive wages for farmworkers.
This commitment has led to a remarkable 95% return rate of seasonal workers, showcasing the positive relationships the company maintains with its labor force. By ensuring supportive work conditions and fair pay, Stemilt positions itself as a socially responsible leader in the agricultural community.
Looking ahead, Stemilt continues to exemplify the convergence of tradition and innovation within the fruit industry. Their commitment to maintaining the highest quality standards while adapting to consumer preferences positions them well for future success. As they navigate modern challenges, such as labor shortages and market regulations, the Mathison family remains dedicated to upholding the core values that have defined their company for generations.
Stemilt’s evolution encapsulates the dynamic nature of the agricultural landscape. From historical foundations in family farming to cutting-edge innovations and solutions in modern agriculture, the company not only embodies a success story but also serves as a model for resilience and adaptability in an often unpredictable market.
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