NIAGARA-ON-THE-LAKE — Niagara’s leading hydroponic vegetable grower is adding a multi-million dollar extension to its state-of-the-art facility in Niagara-on-the-Lake. St. David’s Hydroponics Ltd, specializing in the finest European bell peppers and eggplants, is slated to open its new complex by 2014, making it one of the largest high-end greenhouses in the region.
Drawing on knowledge and expertise gleaned from agricultural traditions in Holland, Vice President Toine van der Knaap is excited to move the business forward and to take advantage of an ever-increasing North American market. The company, which has three facilities in Niagara-on-the-Lake, St. Davids, and Beamsville, supplies both the Canadian and American markets. Its client list includes large retail partners on both sides of the border, as well as local merchants and restaurants.
“Our produce is the result of a meticulous growing process – from state-of-the-art computerized control systems to the extreme care used in grading and packaging,” stated van der Knaap. “We are not motivated to be the biggest, only the best in what we do.” He continued that “the company adheres to strict food safety regulations and is constantly searching for ways to maintain and improve upon its “Gold Standard,” which is awarded annually from the Guelph Food Technology Centre.”
Since arriving here in 1996, van der Knaap has been striving to perfect the Dutch hydroponic techniques amid the unique climate of Niagara Region. To do this, he utilizes biological insect control along with good stewardship when it comes to responsible water control and recycling practices. Given the quality of their product, these actions have served the company well.
Lord Mayor Dave Eke congratulated the company on its success to date. “We are extremely proud to announce the expansion of this facility,” stated Eke. “St. David’s Hydroponics has evolved to become a significant agricultural force in our community, employing close to 100 employees annually during harvest time. And they also continue to take time to supply local restaurants and establishments in the area. This expansion is a gratifying step for an operation named “Company of the Year” in 2009 at the Niagara-on-the-Lake Chamber of Commerce Spirit Awards,” stated Eke.
Please visit the company’s website at www.stdavidshydroponics.com for more information on their operations. For further information, please contact
Dave Eke Henry Stienstra
Lord Mayor Sales Manager, St. David’s Hydroponics
905-468-3266 905-988-5636 x 226 or [email protected]
