Jul 25, 2018Wawona Packing buys stone fruit breeder Burchell Nursery
Wawona Packing Company has acquired the stone fruit breeding assets of Burchell Nursery. Under the terms of the agreement, Wawona will acquire Burchell’s stone fruit breeding program, which includes more than 60 patented varieties of stone fruit trees and their associated genetics.
With a 75-plus year history, Burchell serves over 7,000 growers globally with
Burchell’s breeding team will join Wawona as full-time employees, providing continuity in the testing of varieties that are currently in development. As part of the transaction, Wawona has acquired the exclusive right to propagate the Summer Flame 26, 29, 34 and August Flame varieties, as well as the right to use Cornerstone rootstock in stone fruit in the United States. Burchell will retain its tree nut germplasm and varieties, including its signature Shasta almond.
Will Feliz, chief executive officer of Wawona, said, “We are excited about adding Burchell’s breeding team to Wawona and will work closely with them as we invest in the business to build an industry-leading breeding program. This acquisition enhances Wawona’s vertical integration, continues our commitment to innovation, and will enhance our ability to bring the highest quality tree fruit to our retail customers.”