Applewood Fresh Expands Apple Supply Through Sales Partnership with Belding Fruit Storage, Inc.

SPARTA, Mich. — Applewood Fresh, the Michigan-based apple grower, packer, and shipper operating under parent company FirstFruits Farms, announced a new strategic sales partnership with Belding Fruit Storage, Inc. of Belding, Michigan. Through the partnership, Applewood Fresh will serve as the sales and marketing function for Belding Fruit’s apple program, further strengthening supply capabilities and customer support throughout the Midwest and East Coast.

Located in Belding, Michigan, Belding Fruit Storage, Inc. operates one of the largest apple storage facilities in the eastern United States, with storage capacity exceeding one-half million bushels. The partnership brings together two long-standing Michigan apple organizations with shared commitments to quality, service, and strategic partnerships.

“This partnership is an exciting opportunity to strengthen our presence in the marketplace as a multi-regional supply entity,” said Lon Hudson, National Sales Director of FirstFruits.

The expanded program will offer customers access to a robust lineup of conventional, core, and high-flavor apple varieties, including Honeycrisp, EverCrisp, SweeTango, Fuji, Gala, and Red Delicious, among others. The partnership also enhances the companies’ ability to offer stronger volumes and an extended shipping season.

“We are excited about the partnership with Belding Fruit Storage and the opportunity to serve as the sales function for Belding’s group of generational growers and experienced staff,” said Scott Morrison, General Manager of Applewood Fresh. “Partnering with Belding strengthens our supply chain with additional supply, capacity, storage, and cross-docking opportunities.  Additionally, access to fruit grown in other regions of the state will help mitigate seasonal weather fluctuations.”

Belding Fruit Storage, Inc., has been deeply rooted in Michigan agriculture for generations and are well known throughout the industry for their commitment to quality fruit and long-standing relationships.

“This partnership represents an important step forward for Belding Fruit Storage and our growers. By aligning our storage and packing capabilities with Applewood Fresh’s sales expertise, we are creating a stronger, more focused path to market for Michigan apples.” said Curt Norberg, President Belding Fruit Storage.

Together, the companies aim to strengthen partnerships through expanded regional supply, increased flexibility, and collaborative planning designed to drive long-term category growth.

About Applewood Fresh

Part of the FirstFruits family of brands, Applewood Fresh represents a network of passionate growers, packers, and shippers of premium Michigan apples. The company is nurtured in community, crafted with care, and driven by bold ideas that move the produce world forward. They are built on generations of experience and passion, yet balanced with ultra-modern packing facilities, attention to detail, and the will to continuously improve.

About Belding Fruit Storage, Inc.

Belding Fruit Storage, Inc. is a Michigan-based apple storage and packing operation located in Belding, Michigan. With one of the largest storage facilities in the eastern United States, the company provides a diverse lineup of apple varieties and supports customers throughout the domestic marketplace.