Chelan Fruit, Legacy Fruit, and Pacific Coast Cherry Packers join CMI Orchards following closure of Sage Fruit Company
Washington state’s CMI Orchards has expanded its operational footprint with a series of new apple and cherry partnerships.
Following the closure of Sage Fruit Company at the end of 2024, Chelan Fruit, Legacy Fruit, and Pacific Coast Cherry Packers have joined CMI Orchards, significantly expanding the apple and cherry grower’s production and packing operations.
According to a CMI release, the integration of these warehouses, along with the increased volume of apples and cherries, positions CMI as the world’s leading supplier of both commodities.
Through the recent expansion, CMI has significantly broadened its growing regions to include the Yakima Valley, Hood River, and The Dalles, while also adding acreage in the Columbia Basin, and the Wenatchee Valley. CMI’s cherry packing operations will now return to Yakima after many years.
The company now handles nearly half of the total Sugarbee apple crop.
Additionally, the combined strengths of former Sage Fruit partners in Yakima have bolstered CMI’s regional distribution network, ensuring faster, more efficient delivery and service across the country.
“As we grow, our commitment to quality and long-term partnerships remains unwavering,” said Bob Mast, president of CMI Orchards. “We’re thrilled to welcome three new team members from Sage Fruit, Kaci Komstadius, Doug Hearron, and Rich Mendonza, whose experience and expertise will further elevate our service and capabilities.”
To accommodate its expanding team and operations, the CMI corporate headquarters will relocate to a new, state-of-the-art facility at the Confluence Technology Center in Wenatchee in late April.
