2023 ESG Report
Five generations of farm fresh
January 16, 2024
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It all began with family and strawberries. Howe Family Farms started their journey in the early 1900s, with a roadside market stand selling homegrown strawberries and other fresh produce. From supplying local fairs to grocery stores, Howe Family Farms takes great pride in having a long history of generational strawberry farming in the province of Ontario.
Since the 1970s, Howe Family Farms has been a committed partner to Loblaw in bringing its customers the sweet, fresh, high-quality products they have come to know and love. The partnership began with their father selling berries to Loblaw and transitioned to sons and current owners Rick, Kevin and Ryan Howe, who now provide berries, pumpkins and watermelons to us. “Our family has worked with many Loblaw representatives over the years for our business, and we have formed great relationships along the way,” says Kevin. “We are not the largest grower, but Loblaw treats us like family.”
With the support of produce procurement directors Mark Condoluci, Sebastian Kmiecik and Tyler Walker, Howe Family Farms has had the opportunity to participate in many projects with Loblaw such as ‘Grown Close to Home’, which highlights the journey of where food comes from.
“As a family, we feel that it is fundamental for people to have access to local food. Although we have two farm markets, we realize that isn’t where most people get their food from,” says Kevin. “To reach people, you need to partner with others who want to highlight where it’s coming from and we have always felt that Loblaw makes a great effort in that area.”
Although strawberries are their passion, Kevin and Ryan are also interested in exploring the possibilities of growing produce otherwise not typically grown in the Canadian climate. This inspiration came from a farm worker who grew their own garden there. “We have our tried and true, but we are always open to new ideas, says Kevin. “If Sebastian says ‘check this out’, we will see what it’s all about and go from there.”
Howe Family Farms products are available during local season across our market and discount division locations in the province of Ontario including Loblaws, Your Independent Grocer, Real Canadian Superstore, Valu-Mart, No Frills and Zehrs.
