Borrello notes new opportunity for grape growers
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State Sen. George Borrello is alerting regional grape growers to a new processing opportunity that could provide a much-needed outlet for grapes left without a buyer following significant disruptions in the market this growing season.
Borrello has been actively engaged in the issue over the past several months, meeting with grape growers and processors to discuss the challenges facing the industry and explore potential solutions. With the harvest season drawing to a close, he is sharing information about a new processing and marketing program being offered by Fredonia-based AgriAmerica Fruit Products that may provide an additional option for growers still seeking a market for their grapes.
The company has established a special processing and marketing program to help growers bring their remaining 2026 grape crop to market before the conclusion of this year’s crush season. The opportunity comes at a critical time for the region’s grape industry. Earlier this year, a major grape processor announced it would discontinue grower contracts and stop processing grapes for its own use beginning in 2026, leaving many growers without a buyer for their crops. For producers who have already invested substantial time, labor and financial resources into the growing season, the loss of an anticipated market has created serious financial challenges.
"This has been an incredibly difficult year for many of our grape growers, who have worked hard and invested heavily in their crops only to find themselves without a buyer," said Borrello. "I’ve been meeting with growers and processors over the past several months to better understand the challenges and explore possible solutions. With the harvest season rapidly coming to a close, time is running out for growers who still have grapes on the vine. I want to make sure they are aware of this opportunity through AgriAmerica so they can determine whether it might be a viable option for them."
AgriAmerica is seeking grapes of all varieties and may assist participating growers with harvest logistics, including coordinating mechanical harvesting services, providing tote bins and identifying transportation options. The company also provides documentation of grape deliveries for crop insurance and USDA programs and works with established fruit buyers known for making prompt payments to growers.
The company expects to complete grape crushing in late October or early November, depending on the volume received. Growers interested in participating are encouraged to contact the company promptly to discuss available tonnage and delivery arrangements.
Growers interested in participating should call or text AgriAmerica's Grower Relations Department at 716-225-1156 as soon as possible. Representatives can provide program details, discuss potential deliveries and coordinate harvest assistance if needed.
"Our grape growers are facing an extremely difficult situation, and time is running short," said Borrello. "I want to make sure every grower still searching for a market knows this option is available and has an opportunity to explore whether it can help them salvage this year’s harvest."