How It Started
Hofstede’s Fresh Fruit and Vegetables began in 1981 after Roelof and Doutzen Hofstede moved to Chilliwack from The Netherlands with their two children John (12) and Tera (8). The Hofstede’s started selling Okanagan fruit at the outdoor Chilliwack market in 1985; the same year their youngest daughter Lisa was born.
The Fruit Shuttle
Their weeks were spent at the “Fruit Shuttle” in Keremeos picking fruit. Their weekends, driving out to Chilliwack with a truck full of great quality fresh fruit to sell at the Chilliwack market. The Hofstede’s concept originated from selling fresh produce from local orchards. Now, over 20 years later, the same concept remains and has grown into a commitment to bring local markets of the world to you.
The Store Front
From 1985-1998 the family’s mobile produce stand traveled to Hope, Sardis, Chilliwack and Merritt, building up loyal customers who grew to love their high standards of fresh fruit and personal service. They grew from a small table out of a pickup truck, increasing over the years to a 60′ steel mobile unit designed by Roelof Hofstede specifically for his market stand.