Local apple producer shares operations with Walmart team

RetailAgriculture

Sep 22

Written By Staff

Photo courtesy of Riveridge Produce Marketing

Sparta-based Riveridge Produce Marketing welcomed several local Walmart leaders and store managers for a behind-the-scenes tour of how fresh, Michigan-grown apples are sourced from local orchards to store shelves. The event spotlighted the growing impact of Riveridge’s regional operations and the role that retail partnerships play in strengthening Michigan’s agricultural economy.

The tour of Riveridge’s farm, packing facility, and cider plant brought together growers, policymakers, and retail representatives to celebrate the success of locally grown produce in meeting community needs.

Riveridge is a vertically integrated apple grower, packer, and marketer that works with nearly 200 family orchards, many now in their sixth and seventh generations. These orchards provide nearly 60 percent of Michigan’s fresh apple crop. In addition to apples, Riveridge also produces year-round, fresh-pressed cider under its label.

As a long-standing Walmart supplier, Riveridge benefits from the retailer’s commitment to sourcing locally whenever possible. That support helps ensure that families across Michigan have access to fresh, affordable, and locally grown produce – while sustaining agricultural jobs and generational farms.

Riveridge’s continued growth reflects the value of local partnerships and the unique advantages of West Michigan’s apple-growing climate. With sunny summer days, cool fall nights, and rich soil near Lake Michigan, the region produces some of the most flavorful apples in the country.

“Our partnership with Walmart is invaluable. It not only connects families with fresh, local fruit, but also strengthens Michigan’s apple industry and local economy,” said Kari Soldaat, President, Riveridge Produce Marketing. “This event brings store associates into an orchard, a packing facility, and the cider plant. It provides a behind-the-scenes look at how apples move from tree to store, while giving growers the chance to connect directly with those who help guide grocery decisions. There’s so much we can learn from one another.”

The visit reinforced how supply chain transparency and relationship-building can benefit both retailers and producers and how local farms like Riveridge are shaping the future of Michigan agriculture.

“We know quality is the biggest driver when selecting produce, which is why we source as close to the customer as possible, without sacrificing quality,” said Rachael Carl, Public Affairs Manager, Walmart. “As we celebrate our local farmers in Michigan and across the country, we remain committed to buying the locally grown produce that support and create local jobs. It makes sense for our customers, our communities and our company.”

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