BC Tree Fruits Cooperative et al., CCAA

BC Tree Fruits Cooperative et al., a cooperative serving fruit producers in the Okanagan Valley since 1936, obtained CCAA protection on August 13.

The cooperative is member-owned and directed, working with approximately 290 local growers who care for, pick, and deliver fruit to the cooperative, which in turn stores, markets, packages and distributes fruit to customers.

The cooperative has struggled due to adverse weather events, low fruit volumes, and competition from Washington State growers, as well as an internal dispute among members regarding the potential disposal of non-operational real estate owned by the cooperative (which did not end up materializing) to address the $51 million owed to CIBC.

The purpose of the CCAA proceedings is to conduct a SISP, with CIBC providing DIP financing.

A&M is the monitor.

Counsel is Norton Rose Fulbright for the cooperative, Fasken for the monitor and Blakes for CIBC.