Stemilt Growers, one of America’s largest fruit growers and packers, has a rich history that stretches back to the late 19th century. Founded by Tom Mathison in Wenatchee, Washington, Stemilt’s roots can be traced to the Mathison family’s homesteading efforts in 1893. With a focus on cultivating apples, pears, and cherries, the business blossomed over the years. Tom Mathison emerged as the third-generation leader of the fruit business, stepping into his role as the family patriarch at the tender age of 21. This youthful transition followed a tragic family loss, as Tom took the reins of a financially struggling farm shortly after World War II.
His early experiences were mired in challenges, reflecting broader trends that plagued the fruit industry. Despite the initial setbacks, Tom’s tenacity led to the establishment of Stemilt Growers in 1964, a significant move that would allow him to consolidate control over the entire production process, from harvesting to marketing.
Over the decades, Stemilt has navigated a multitude of industry changes, leveraging innovation to enhance product quality and operational efficiency. One major turning point was the advent of Controlled Atmosphere Storage technology in the 1960s, which revolutionized the apple industry. This innovation allowed apples to be stored year-round, effectively transforming the fruit from a seasonal offering into a staple available throughout the year. This increased supply meant apples had to contend with other fruits, including bananas, which necessitated a focus on marketing specific types of apples.
Notably, the infamous “Alar Scare” of 1989 presented another significant disruption for the apple industry. Following alarming claims about health risks linked to a chemical used in apple cultivation, the market suffered drastic losses—approximately $100 million in revenue. However, from the ashes of this crisis emerged a newfound dedication among growers to diversify apple varieties. These efforts yielded a competitive marketplace where diversity and quality began to dictate success. Stemilt emerged from this period with exclusive rights to certain apple varieties, solidifying its reputation for quality in a manner that was both innovative and responsive to market demands.
As consumer preferences evolved, so did Stemilt’s approach to product offerings. Initially dominated by traditional apple varieties, the fruit industry recognized the need for diversification. The heightened competition spurred investments into proprietary varieties, leading to the development of brands like Rave®, and platforms like Lil Snappers® and Happi Pear®. These initiatives were not only pivotal for Stemilt but also for the industry at large as retailers began to realize the economic advantage of showcasing a wider variety of apples for consumers. This understanding underpinned the strategy that each piece of fruit was not merely a product but a stepping stone to sell the next one, highlighting the cyclic nature of fruit marketing.
The evolution of fruit cultivation techniques has also played a significant role in shaping Stemilt’s operations. The shift toward high-density orchards, characterized by the utilization of dwarfing rootstocks, represented a marked departure from traditional farming techniques. This revolutionary method allowed fruit trees to be planted closer together and significantly reduced the height of the trees, making harvesting safer and more efficient.
In an era where labor shortages have become a pressing issue, particularly in agriculture, Stemilt has embraced innovative labor solutions through partnerships. Notably, the organization has aligned with CiertoGlobal.Org, a venture dedicated to ensuring fair wages and proper training for guest workers. By offering competitive compensation—$20 per hour guaranteed—and fostering an environment of trust and respect, Stemilt has achieved an impressively high worker return rate of 95%. This speaks volumes about the company’s commitment to its workforce and the long-term relationships it has cultivated over the years.
As Stemilt Growers reflects on its illustrious past, it stands at a precipice of further transformation in the fruit industry. The company’s dedication to quality, innovation, and sustainability has set a benchmark for how fruit businesses can thrive in a modern economy. By continuously evolving their practices, embracing new technologies, and prioritizing their workforce, Stemilt aims to ensure its legacy not only survives but thrives. As the world becomes increasingly health-conscious and aware of sourcing practices, Stemilt is poised to be a leader in providing safe, nutritious, and high-quality fruit to consumers nationwide. The story of Stemilt is not just a narrative of a fruit company; it is a testament to resilience, innovation, and the pursuit of excellence in agriculture.