Spring Valley Produce was officially opened today during an open house at the facility. The new 28,000 square foot greenhouse will specialize in the production of tomatoes and cucumbers.
Schurman Farm Ltd, producers of Spring Valley Select brand, are the owners and operators of the new greenhouse which will initially create three new jobs.
"Schurman's is a third generation farming operation that has deep roots in this community. I am confident that its new operation, Spring Valley Produce, will continue the tradition of quality and excellence that Prince Edward Island produce is known for," said the Honourable Mitch Murphy, Minister of Agriculture and Forestry, on behalf of the Honourable Mike Currie, Minister of Development and Technology. "I look forward to seeing their product line on the shelves which will give consumers more opportunity to buy Island produce."
The primary markets for Spring Valley Produce are southeastern New Brunswick and PEI.
"This is an exciting new venture for the Schurman family. Their entrepreneurial spirit is helping them to diversify as farm operators and offer homegrown quality products on a year-round basis," said Joe McGuire, Member of Parliament for Egmont, on behalf of the Honourable Gerry Byrne, Minister of State for the Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency (ACOA).
Company owner Marc Schurman points to market demand and growing conditions as the main reasons for the company's decision to focus solely on tomatoes and cucumbers at this time.
"I've been in discussion with produce managers across the Island and in New Brunswick and there's strong interest in our produce," said Schurman. "By specializing in two product lines, Spring Valley Produce hopes to gain a reputation for superior products. As we become more established, we will be examining the possibility of producing new vegetables."
The Department of Development and Technology contributed to the project with a $50,953 interest rebate through PEI Business Development's Low Interest Loan program. ACOA provided a $42,500 repayable contribution through its Business Development Program for grading and packaging equipment.