Walters Gardens, Inc. "2008 Michigan International Exporter of the Year"
Michigan exports generate $1.68 billion, employs over 13,000 residents

ZEELAND, Mich. - Governor Jennifer M. Granholm and Michigan Department of Agriculture (MDA) Director Don Koivisto have selected Walters Gardens, Inc., of Zeeland, as the "2008 Michigan Agriculture Exporter of the Year" for its ability to build a strong reputation and expand its business in the Canadian market as a perennial grower with superior quality products. 

"Walters Gardens' is a perfect example of how one company's ability to expand its market reach can help generate a stronger state economy here at home," Granholm said.  "The company's growth into the Canadian market demonstrates that Michigan businesses can thrive in the global marketplace and that is good news for our state.  We congratulate Walters Gardens on their success and stand ready to work with other companies who are planning to follow their lead."

"Walters Gardens was chosen because season after season, they continue to deliver the highest quality agricultural product to their export markets thereby representing Michigan's commitment to quality and aiding economic diversification," said Koivisto.  "Michigan is second in the nation for agricultural diversity and exports over one-third of its agricultural commodities every year."

Recent studies show state exports generated $1.68 billion in 2008 and employed over 13,000 residents.

Walters Gardens, Inc. is a third generation company and North America's leading wholesale perennial grower with items such as hostas and day lilies. It was established in 1946 and today employs 240 people in the Zeeland area. Their export sales grew 34 percent from 2007-2008 and account for nine percent of overall sales.  The company exports over 1,000 varieties of perennials to Canada annually.

"We are honored to be named the ‘2008 Michigan Agriculture Exporter of the Year'," said John Walters, CEO of Walters Gardens, Inc.  "The company has been blessed with increasing market share in Canada over the past several years, and the recognition this award will bring us will help to strengthen our market presence there.  Our dedicated staff will continue to work hard to grow our business and help us to retain and expand Michigan based jobs."

Walters Gardens, Inc. was selected in part due to their commitment to the entire purchasing process. While most wholesale growers do not offer marketing materials, Walters Gardens, Inc. recognized the need for adequate marketing and media tools in order to be more successful in selling their brand in Canada.

The award review committee consisted of representatives from Michigan Farm Bureau, Michigan State University, and National City Bank. The decision was based upon several factors including, marketing plans, ability to expand into new markets, alliances with other organizations, and export sales growth over the last three years. To be eligible, the products also had to be more than 50 percent grown, processed or manufactured in Michigan.

Previous winners include Honee Bear Canning Company, Lawton; Cooperative Elevator Company, Pigeon; Cherry Central, Traverse City; Michigan Apple Committee, DeWitt; and Graceland Fruit Inc., Frankfort.

For information on Michigan's international marketing programs, contact the Michigan Department of Agriculture at (517) 241-3628.

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