SELAH, WA - We reported back in August 2020 that Rainier Fruit Company had solidified its partnership with the Equitable Food Initiative (EFI) by becoming officially EFI certified at its Mattawa ranch, which features over 2,300 acres, as well as its Zirkle Harrison operation, which houses six packing lines, 100 CA rooms, and 29 shipping bays. Each of these certifications, which took place last year, have expanded Rainier's focus on supporting its team members.

“That was a huge accomplishment, but one that wasn’t a stretch,” said Mark Zirkle, CEO at Rainier. “You get out what you put in—treating people right is what we have done in my family for generations. We are just making things official.”

Rooted in family, Rainier has always prided itself on doing what is going to benefit everyone from its farms to the consumer. The EFI certification is exemplary of this, addressing over 300 standards including labor conditions, food safety, and pest management.

“I am extremely proud of the accomplishments we have made in 2020,” said Blake Belknap, VP of Sales. “We have continued to push the envelope and evolve as an industry leader.”

A press release stated that the impressive Zirkle Harrison operation stands at over 1.5 million square feet. Between the field and the facility, approximately 1,500 employees have been directly impacted by the comprehensive EFI trainings that are focused on ongoing collaboration between employees and management.

“We are a company founded on integrity and deeply integrated from the dirt to the trade. That provides clarity and reliable supply that our customers rely on 365 days a year. I cannot wait to see the amazing things that are going to happen at Rainier Fruit Company in 2021,” Belknap concluded.

Congratulations to Rainier on this exciting achievement!

Rainier Fruit Company