Latest news with #OkanaganValley
CBC
17-05-2025
- Business
- CBC
B.C. Tree Fruits brand to live on after construction group buys intellectual property
Yet another iconic Canadian brand will live on, as a company based in Penticton, B.C. has announced the purchase of B.C. Tree Fruits logo and trademarks. The news comes the same week that Canadian Tire publicized its intention to purchase Hudson's Bay's stripes and logo for $30 million. Though not as big, the $23 million deal in British Columbia sees the sale of several assets that had belonged to B.C. Tree Fruits to the Wildstone Capital and the Wildstone Group of Companies, better known as Wildstone Construction. The assets include equipment, real estate and the green leaf logo that has adorned fruit packaging and apple stickers for decades as a sign of quality local food. "This marks a significant milestone for growers and the agricultural community across the Okanagan Valley and the province at large," Wildstone CEO Mark Melissen said in a release. B.C. Tree Fruits was founded as a co-operative in 1936 and over the decades it grew to represent more than 230 farming families and included a grower supply company, a fresh fruit market in Kelowna and, in 2014, a craft cider company branded with the B.C. Tree Fruits logo. But last year the co-operative dissolved, citing "extremely low estimated fruit volumes, weather effects and difficult market and financial conditions." Assets belonging to the co-op have been sold off, including one of its main cold storage facilities, which was purchased by a pharmaceuticals group. Wildstone says it is partnering with Ontario-based Algoma Orchards to renew B.C. Tree Fruits in the weeks ahead, taking fruit grown by local farmers at its Oliver, packing plant and reviving operations at receiving facilities in Summerland and Keremeos, as well. "It's an honour to help restore strength and stability for farming families in the Okanagan, many of whom faced uncertainty when B.C. Tree Fruits announced it would be winding down," Melissen said in the release.
National Post
14-05-2025
- Business
- National Post
Porter Airlines Celebrates First Flight Between Kelowna-Toronto Pearson
Article content TORONTO — Porter Airlines has landed in Kelowna with nonstop service from Toronto Pearson International Airport (YYZ). The schedule begins with five weekly roundtrip flights, increasing to daily roundtrip flights on June 23. Article content Article content Kelowna complements Porter's growing presence in British Columbia with existing flights to Vancouver and Victoria. The route is operated on the new 132-seat Embraer E195-E2 aircraft, the quietest and most fuel-efficient aircraft in its class. The two-by-two configuration means no middle seats on any Porter flight. Article content Connecting flights with Ottawa, Montréal, Halifax and St. John's are also available via Toronto. Article content 'With our growing presence in Western Canada, and strong connections across our eastern network, we're making it even easier for travellers to explore all that Canada has to offer,' said Andrew Pierce, vice president, network planning and reporting, Porter Airlines. 'Kelowna offers travellers year-round activities to embrace the beauty and adventure of the Okanagan Valley. It's a must-visit for its scenic views, trails, pristine lakes, skiing, and award-winning wineries.' Porter's onboard experience provides every passenger with complimentary beer and wine served in glassware, a selection of Canadian premium snacks, and free, fast streaming WiFi. The all-inclusive PorterReserve fare includes fresh, healthy meals, and features such as the ability to change flights without a fee, dedicated check-in, extra legroom, and two checked bags. For travellers who want to choose specific features to fit their needs, the PorterClassic fare offers these perks à la carte. Article content 'We are excited to have a new airline at YLW that provides our passengers with more travel options and increased access to destinations across Canada. This is the start of what I know will be a great partnership with Porter Airlines that will benefit our entire region,' says Sam Samaddar, Chief Executive Officer, Kelowna International Airport. Article content Sustainability is at the heart of the menu design, with a priority on reducing and eventually eliminating single-use plastics onboard, providing biodegradable cutlery, and eco-friendly packaging. Article content 'Kelowna is excited to welcome Porter Airlines' inaugural flight from Toronto Pearson International Airport,' said Mayor Tom Dyas. 'This new direct connection is one of several new routes supporting the continued expansion of Kelowna International Airport. It strengthens our ties to Eastern Canada, boosts our local economy, supports businesses, and highlights Kelowna's growing appeal as a premier destination.' Article content Article content Article content Article content Article content Article content
