The state's Minister for Primary Industries and Water, Jeremy Rockliff, has congratulated the fruit sector veteran on his retirement and the planned sale of Reid Fruits. 

In a statement, Rockliff highlighted the changes the company had undergone over the years, and the strong interest in the state's cherry industry in general.

"Tim is a true legend of Tasmania's fruit industry, building Reid Fruits into a Tasmanian success story and an iconic local business," Rockliff said.

"Established by James Reid in 1856, the business became one of the biggest producers and packers of apples in Australia. 

"In 2000, the company began producing cherries and has once again become a renowned producer and exporter to more than 20 countries around the world."

He said Tim Reid continued to develop the business into one of Australia’s premiere growers and exporters, and in 2013 was recognized as Australia’s Farmer of the Year.

"No doubt the decision to sell the business would have been a very difficult one for the Reid family, however, the fact that there is such interest in the business already shows that there is strong confidence in the Tasmanian primary industries sector and more broadly, growing confidence in Tasmania’s role as a producer of premium, fresh produce," he said.

"While the Reid family will be responsible for deciding who will buy their business, it should be noted that if they buyer is from overseas and the price is above (AUD)$15 million (US$11.5 million) it will need to be approved by the Foreign Investment Review Board."

Photo: Tim Reid, courtesy of Brand Tasmania

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