Five generations have had a hand in managing Crunican Orchards, which has successfully evolved with the times and reached another milestone. This year marks the 75th anniversary of the retail store on site.
Owner Phillip Crunican says it was his grandmother Bernadette’s suggestion to open a store. “It was with her encouragement that my father and uncle started the shop in 1950. It’s hard to believe this anniversary is here. It’s wonderful we can keep it going.”
Phillip operates the Elginfield-area orchard, established in 1877, with his brothers Peter and Alf. Now their children produce items for purchase on site. Phillip’s son and daughter, Gregory and Colleen, make the popular Generations Cider and have recently introduced a new apple-cherry flavour. Alf’s son Andre produces garlic for the store, and Alf’s wife Deb writes children’s books, including Each Season Matters, about the resilience of a little apple tree. Her books are available for purchase on site.
“It’s very satisfying that the kids want to see it continue. It makes us want to keep investing in the business,” Phillip says.
He adds that what’s also gratifying is the many relationships the family has built with suppliers. “We’ve been supporting local entrepreneurs and their products for 75 years.” Some partnerships — such as Wellesley Brand Apple Products (providing cider and butter) and Robinson’s Maple Products — have continued for decades. “The longstanding relationships are exciting to think about,” he says, including partnerships with charities. “We give them gift cards for silent auctions and donate apples to food banks. We try to do this regularly.”
Preparations are underway for autumn. Crunican’s pumpkins, squash, and gourds are popular for baking and decoration. “We grow some white ones and warty ones and different shapes and sizes to make everyone happy,” says Phillip. Of course, apples remain the No. 1 item sold. A newer variety, Crimson Crisp, will be ready in October. “Many varieties are harvested in September, and we wanted one a little later.”
Crunican Orchards has a progressive mentality, and that’s key to their success, Phillip says. “We’re always trying to look ahead.”
FOR MORE INFORMATION
Crunican Orchards
23778 Richmond St. N. London
519-666-0286
crunicanorchards.com
