U.S. berry company Wish Farms has expanded its relationship with Michigan grower, Leduc Blueberries, and is now expecting a 30% volume boost from the state this season.

"This five-year agreement is fantastic because we are now completely aligned," said Teddy Koukoulis, director of blueberry operations.

"This deal speaks to our team’s continuing effort to work with exceptional grower-packers that adhere to our rigorous food safety standards, quality guidelines and core values."

The Michigan season kicked off this July and will last through mid-September. Coming off record highs, more moderate temperatures are expected in the region this summer. The company's volume is projected to reach 2 million pounds, and Koukoulis is optimistic that number could flourish to 3 million over the next five years.

“We anticipate great blueberry growing weather for the region this season. The Duke, Blue Crop and Elliots varieties all look and taste excellent,” said Koukoulis.

The Leduc family has been growing blueberries in Paw Paw, MI since 1955. When Roger and Jackie Leduc started their 20-acre farm, they had no idea it would blossom into the 400-acre operation it is today, complete with a popular retail store.

Their son, Joe, who is now the owner-operator, said: "We are excited to market 100% of our crop with Wish Farms. The fact that they are also a family-operated business is just icing on the cake for us."

Wish Farms, founded in 1922 and third-generation owned, is a year-round supplier of strawberries, blueberries, blackberries and raspberries, growing both conventional and organic

www.freshfruitportal.com