SPARTA, MI - Walmart is shining a spotlight on its commitment to locally grown this September, teaming up with Riveridge Produce Marketing to mark International Eat an Apple Day with a farm, packing, and cider tour in Michigan.
The event underscores the retailer’s investment in supporting regional growers and strengthening community ties. Riveridge, a vertically integrated apple grower, packer, and marketer, represents nearly 200 family orchards—some now in their sixth and seventh generations—and accounts for nearly 60 percent of Michigan’s fresh apple crop, according to the recent release.
From apples to cider, the partnership highlights how sourcing close to home fuels both economic growth and community connections. Local Walmart leaders, growers, and policymakers joined Riveridge President Kari Soldaat to explore the operation and reflect on the broader value of locally grown produce across the retailer’s footprint.
Local Walmart leaders, business stakeholders, growers, and policymakers will be on hand for a series of tours beginning September 19, including stops at Riveridge’s packing line, harvest fields, and cider facility. Together, they’ll highlight how locally sourced produce strengthens communities, fuels economic growth, and keeps fresh food close to home. The tours can be located at the following addresses:
- 8:00 a.m. - Packing Facility Tour
- Riveridge Packing, 7777 Venture Ave, Sparta, MI 49345
- 9:15 a.m. – Harvest Tour
- Riveridge Produce, 12345 Ferris Ave, Grant, MI 49347
- 10:00 a.m. - Cider Plant Tour
- Riveridge Cider, 14046 Mason Dr., Grant, MI 49327
As Walmart notes, two-thirds of its product spend already supports items made, grown, or assembled in the U.S., with $1.5 billion in locally grown produce sourced in FY25 alone. With fresh fruits and vegetables available in stores for pickup and for delivery to 93 percent of the U.S. population, the retailer continues to build on a legacy of supporting American farmers while delivering value to consumers.
Stay tuned as ANUK continues to bring you the latest updates from retailers.
Companies in this Story
Riveridge Produce Marketing
Twenty-five years ago, Riveridge was founded by three partners who shared a background in Michigan produce and the…
