In 1970s Wexford there was in excess of 750 small strawberry farms mostly producing strawberries for jam making. Today a handful remain and all fruit is grown for the fresh market. Among the remaining handful is Greens Berry Farm, which was started by John and Paula Greene and grew rapidly during the late 90 and early 2000s.
The main variety of strawberry now grown is Malling Centenary. It is chosen for its taste and good looks. No other retailer can offer fruit and potatoes for sale on the same day that they were harvested and because the farm is so visible, people trust the freshness and appreciate locally grown produce. Greens Berry Farm have 35 people employed all summer long which creates a huge spinoff for the local economy with many people comming down from Dublin just to buy the fruit.
People associate Greens Berry Farm with healthy food as we are environmentally friendly and a leader in our field. All leftover fruit goes to jam making and all waste fertigation water is collected and spread on other crops such as potatoes and grassland which means there is no waste.
Tinnock Farm Shop
Established in 1987 by John and Paula Greene it sells the vast majority of its sizeable production directly from its own Farm Shops. This is in complete contrast to 20 years ago when 75% went to multiples and 25% was farm gate sale. Today the Farm Shop is host to an estimated 60,000 customers each summer and it forms an important part of the tourist offering in the local area.
Origin Green Approved and Bord Bia Approved since 1996 means you can be sure of superb quality produce that is grown safely and sustainably.
The emphasis is on taste and freshness. Varieties are chosen for how they taste rather than crop size. Fruit is picked fresh each morning from 7am and is available for immediate sale without refrigeration. Strawberries, Raspberries, Blackberries, Gooseberries and New Potatoes are all grown at this Farm near Gorey, Co Wexford.
Courtown Road Farm Shop
Set in a 300 year old farmyard just off the main Gorey – Courtown Road. This lovely, converted stable became a second Farm Shop for Greens Berry Farm in 2001. Strawberries, Raspberries, Blackberries, Gooseberries and New Potatoes arrive freshly picked each morning in season. Some of the biggest berries are dipped in Dark Chocolate, some of the smaller ones are chopped into cups for strawberries and ice cream. Preserves, Juices, Wine, take away Coffee complete the experience.