Feds Support Apple ‘Chips’ Venture

Jul 06, 2012

Martin’s Fruit Farm gets Funding for New Plant

Martin’s Family Fruit Farm will produce apple “chips” thanks to a $3 million dollar loan from the Canadian federal government to help build a new plant in Elmira, Ont. Once the plant begins to make a profit the loan will be repaid says Federal Agriculture Minister Gerry Ritz. The loan is made possible through the government’s Agricultural Innovation Program.

“This project is a great example of what we’re trying to achieve,” says Ritz. “It’s a product sure to be popular with today’s health conscious consumer” says Ritz.

Not only will the loan add value to the Martin’s family business by giving them an opportunity to diversify and access to new markets, but it will also create 30 full-time jobs. The Martin’s run a 750 acre operation and their facility supports over 40 other Ontario apple growers in the region.

This week the workers broke ground for the 17, 000 square foot facility projected to be completed before December of this year and Kevin Martin couldn’t be more pleased with the commitment made by the government “it’s a market that needs to be created,” he says. “We’re going to be expending some serious energy over the next several months in branding and marketing.

The announcement comes as the Martin’s along with many other apple producers were left with only 15 to 20 per cent of their crop that survived the frost.

Video: Winter Service Inspections for John Deere Equipment - The FarmCast Ep64

The FarmCast, host Troy Randall speaks with Doug Luedke, Vice President of Service, and Davin Peterson, Executive Vice President of Aftermarket at 21st Century Equipment, to discuss the importance of proactive service and how it helps farmers reduce downtime during their busiest seasons. The conversation focuses on the Winter Service Inspection Program, a comprehensive approach designed to keep equipment running at peak performance and limit costly in-season breakdowns through preventative maintenance and expert technician support.

Doug and Devin explain how 21st Century Equipment’s service teams have evolved to meet the needs of today’s connected machines. With more technology and data integrated into modern equipment, technicians now play a vital role in both mechanical repairs and precision ag support. Through advanced diagnostics, machine monitoring, and John Deere’s Expert Alerts, they can identify and address potential issues before they become major problems—saving customers valuable time, money, and frustration.

Throughout the discussion, the team shares real-world success stories demonstrating how proactive inspections and customer-focused service help maximize uptime and efficiency for every operation. Whether it’s a large tractor, combine, or small mower, the goal remains the same: to provide trusted, reliable support that helps farmers and landowners stay productive and confident in their equipment year-round.