SELAH, WA - With Organic Produce Summit (OPS) 2021 less than a month away, the industry-shaking advancements of the organic sector are fresh on my mind. One cannot address developments in organics without mentioning Rainier Fruit Company, one of the many leading suppliers who will take to the show floor come September 15–16.
"It will be an exciting time to be in trade shows again after so much time apart," Blake Belknap, Vice President of Sales, tells me as we look ahead to the anticipated event. "I am looking forward to seeing familiar faces and having conversations with others in the organic segment. Rainier has been a leader in organics since before it was seen as a profitable category."
Continuing to grow its prowess in the organic sector, Rainier sets an admirable focus on treating its people and soil with care and dignity through its organic production and programs like the Equitable Food Initiative (EFI) and Bee Better Certification. One year ago, the supplier revealed its Mattawa ranch and Zirkle Harrison operation became officially EFI certified, meeting over 300 rigorous standards including labor conditions, food safety, and pest management.
Rainier's impressive growth in organics and the industry at large is the result of critical investments across its operations and those who man them, as Blake explains to me.
"Our family-owned business is constantly investing in the best ground, the best varieties, and the best people,” he says. “Because of that, we're excited to finish up our fourth summer of shipping year-round, domestic organic fruit and we're eager to kickstart another crop year!"
If you haven't registered for this exciting industry event yet, click here to do so, and don't forget to check out Rainier's organic offerings while you peruse the show floor!
