Issue link: http://read.dmtmag.com/i/95311
On the farming side of the business, Borton Fruit invested in several large parcels of undeveloped land, allowing for diversification into new apple varieties. The most significant of the acquisitions was the Flat-Top Ranch east of Pasco, Washington. The original piece was purchased in 1982, and in ensuing years, additional pieces were added to the ranch, to bring the farming acreage to over 2,800 acres. True to the Borton tradition of keeping it all in the family, Flat-Top was purchased in partnership with Dave Hovde, the husband of Donna (Borton) Hovde, the late Don Borton's daughter. According to Bill Borton, "Having a considerable amount of undeveloped land allowed us to be among the first to market new varieties as they became popular. This allowed us to be industry leaders in the development of Fuji, Gala, Braeburn, Granny Smith, Jonagold, Cameo, and, most recently, Honeycrisp." Borton Fruit has also been an Industry leader in innovative growing practices. John Borton points to the company's decision to acquire two large apple, pear, and cherry packing and storage facilities as key components that allowed for the expansion of its cherry and pear production, enhancing the company's product mix. Diversification The decision to diversify into the businesses outside of farming has also been integral in the company's overall growth. John Borton explains: "We recognized an oppor- tunity in construction and real estate development, acquiring and building more than 600 apartment units in Yakima. We also designed and developed the Apple Tree Golf Course & Resort community." of Puget Sound graduate, is the company's Vice President of International Sales. John's daughter, Katie (Borton) Bir- ley, returned along with her husband, Andy Birley, in 2003 after they both graduated from Colorado State University. Katie's responsibilities are helping to oversee Apple Tree Resort and Apple Tree Construction Company. She recently partnered with her cousin Byron in the recent construction of 330 apartments at Castle Creek and a 25,000 square foot corporate headquarters for Borton Fruit. Andy serves as general manager of Borton Fruit operations. Bill's son-in-law Andy Judd farms with his dad in Tieton but also manages several Borton ranches in the Tieton area. Also, John's nephew Jon Kinloch, who gradu- ated from Gonzaga University, serves as General Manager of Apple Tree Resort. Young blood Patriarch Richard Borton, 1937 Carved from the natural rolling terrain of the sur- rounding orchards, Apple Tree has quickly become one of the Pacific Northwest's premier golf courses. Apple Tree's signature 17th hole features the world-famous apple island green, which has become an icon in the apple industry and is widely believed to be the state's most photographed golf hole. While unprecedented growth has occurred under the leadership of John and Bill Borton, a fourth generation of Bortons has returned to the business, poised to make its mark with expansion, innovation, and diversification. Bill's son Byron, a Whitworth graduate, is the com- pany's Chief Visionary Officer. John's son Eric, a University Storage Solutions . . . Delivered to your site 30 Fire Protection Ventilation Containment New and Used Refurbished Buildings Available In Sizes From 8 x 8 up to 10 x Contact us at 509 88or4-0555 www.rentmestorage.com 18 DECEMBER 2012 GOOD FRUIT GROWER When asked how the up-and-coming generation of Bortons will make its mark on the future, Byron Borton explains. "The young blood coming into the company is like a shot of adrenaline. Not only do we have fresh ideas about the company's direction, the enthusiasm to build upon what we have is quite exciting. Technology contin- ues to change, not only in the packing sheds but also in the field. "Each year, new strains of cherry and apple varieties are released into the market. It takes quite a while to truly evaluate the long-term performance of each new variety. Everybody is afraid of missing the next big thing—such as Honeycrisp—so you are seeing growers taking gambles on varieties before they have been truly vetted. Keeping your eyes open to new and innovative prospects is half the battle." Eric Borton believes the global marketplace is the most significant area of opportunity for growth into the future. "While domestic sales will continue to drive our core business, international exports to developing markets around the world represent an enormous opportunity for every type of fruit we grow," he said. "It's important that we not only understand how each international market is unique, but also to invest time learning about each culture and cultivating relationships." According to Byron Borton, the future also holds a number of challenges. "Labor continues to be a challenge into the future. Not only are skilled employees difficult to find and retain, but the harvest window to get all of the fruit picked with ideal maturity continues to narrow." When asked what it's like to have so many Bortons under one roof, the answer carries a common theme. Eric Borton says, "It's amazing to be able to share success and the experience of running a business with your family. Each person has their own unique talents and ideas, which helps breed success." According to Andy Birley, "It can be challenging at times, but it is also rewarding knowing the hard work you put in helps build the business and makes it stronger for the next generation." John Borton agrees: "Working in a family business certainly does have its challenges, but it also has great rewards working together as a team to accomplish a common goal." Borton Fruit has experienced great loyalty and dedica- tion from its employees. Forty-six of its current employees have been with the company more than 15 years. When asked to what he attributes the company's remarkable record of retaining employees, Bill Borton explains, "From an ownership standpoint, we've always tried to make sure that our employees know that it's their hard work and dedication that truly make us what we are today." When asked what his grandfather Byron Sarver Borton would think of Borton & Sons 100 years later, John Borton said, "I think he would be thrilled with what we've accom- plished, but I think he would be most proud of how we've honored the values and heritage of the family throughout the company's growth. As the next generation takes the baton, it's our hope that we honor and preserve that legacy for years to come." • www.goodfruit.com ORDER TODAY