When Hans Stoffelsma immigrated to Canada from Holland with a dream to grow trees, he couldn't have imagined what five acres of land would one day become.  But within two years of starting their greenhouse business, he and his wife Susan had their first contract to grow 100,000 western hemlock seedlings.  Fast forward 32 years and Arbutus Grove Nursery has grown into a progressive business on 25 acres producing over nine million reforestation seedlings annually for their customers across B.C. and the North-Western U.S., with their son, Nathaniel, at the helm.

The company has steadily grown over its history, due to the consistent quality of trees grown as well as the customer relationships fostered.  Steady growth has made the transition of the business from father to son a smooth one.  "I look at the company now from a distance and I am very satisfied with our life's work.  Nathaniel has taken the reins, making the business his own while still retaining Arbutus' core values of family, customer service and quality product.  It feels good," Hans says.

Indeed, Nathaniel is keen to maintain the business for generations to come.  "We're making strides to become a better and more efficient business, but our strength will always be the skilful and dedicated people we work with," Nathaniel shares.  "Arbutus is family owned and operated, but 'family' doesn't stop with the last name 'Stoffelsma'.  Some of our staff are third generation, turning the business into more than just a profitable alliance, it's an extended family.  Our team has truly been the key to our success," shares Nathaniel proudly.

 www.arbutusgrove.com