Spalding-based fruit supplier J.O. Sims have taken over the management of the Broomfields of Holt cherry farm at Cutnall Green in Worcestershire from Fiona Broomfield. Although J.O. Sims has a number of cherry production sites around the world, this is it first such facility in the UK.
The farm is recognised as a high-quality grower of both sweet red and blushed cherry varieties producing a consistently excellent crop, and its acquisition is part of the company’s efforts to secure a year-round supply of the crop.
J.O. Sims Managing Director, Christopher Sims, commented “We are delighted to complete this deal. Over the last few years, we have looked to extend control over our global supply chain, extending availability and reducing costs. However, we recognise that the UK season is becoming an increasingly important part of the cherry supply calendar, as consumers take a more active interest in local sourcing, reducing food miles and their carbon footprint.
He continued, “This deal allows us to bring all the knowledge we have learnt in growing over the last 30 years and apply it to a UK setting, improving yields and quality. We can’t wait to get onto the farm and deliver our customers some fantastic English cherries this summer.”