The Big Apple Ain't in New York

TL;DR

Big B's Orchard in Hotchkiss, Colorado, is not just a place for delicious apple juice, but a sustainable and innovative community that embraces vertical integration and agrotourism.

Transcript

welcome to day six of the fifth annual the modern eater Colorado road trip day six lands Us in Hotchkiss Colorado with beautiful big bees Delicious Orchards meet the face of big bees his name is Jeff Schwartz and he's a Visionary Jeff believes sustainability and vertical integration aren't just buzzwords they're a way of life get ready to Embark up... Read More

Key Insights

• 🚦 Big B's has embraced sustainability and vertical integration, creating a diverse and prosperous operation.
• 🏕️ The orchard has evolved into an agrotourism destination, offering camping, glamping, and various events that attract visitors.
• 🔙 The emphasis on community and empowerment of employees has been crucial to Big B's success and growth.
• 🇧🇦 From exploring sustainable farming practices to going beyond apple juice production, Big B's continues to innovate and expand its offerings.
• 🍝 Big B's embraces the wisdom of elders and values the importance of learning from past generations.
• 🎨 The orchard has evolved into a beautifully designed landscape, with attention to curb appeal and efficient design.
• 💨 Big B's continues to find new ways to add value to their products and attract a diverse customer base.

Questions & Answers

Q: How has Big B's evolved in the 20 years since its inception?

Over the years, Big B's has matured into a sustainable operation with a calm and mature energy. It now supports 40 employees and offers various innovative experiences beyond apple juice production.

Q: How does Big B's practice vertical integration?

Big B's has expanded its product line to include apple juice, cider, vinegar, jams, jellies, and even apple fritter pancakes. They have also added agrotourism offerings like glamping and camping.

Q: How does Big B's prioritize sustainability?

Big B's follows various sustainable practices, including permaculture, sustainable agriculture, organic and biodynamic farming, and sustainable economy. They also emphasize learning from and respecting the wisdom of elders.

Q: How does Big B's empower its employees?

Big B's values its employees' skills and strengths and empowers them to develop their own product lines and take initiatives. This includes creating opportunities for employees to showcase their talents in the store and at events.

Key Insights:

• Big B's has embraced sustainability and vertical integration, creating a diverse and prosperous operation.
• The orchard has evolved into an agrotourism destination, offering camping, glamping, and various events that attract visitors.
• The emphasis on community and empowerment of employees has been crucial to Big B's success and growth.
• From exploring sustainable farming practices to going beyond apple juice production, Big B's continues to innovate and expand its offerings.
• Big B's embraces the wisdom of elders and values the importance of learning from past generations.
• The orchard has evolved into a beautifully designed landscape, with attention to curb appeal and efficient design.
• Big B's continues to find new ways to add value to their products and attract a diverse customer base.
• The next phase for Big B's includes further expansion, integrating new areas and offerings, and continuing to prioritize sustainability and innovation.

Summary & Key Takeaways

• Big B's was built around an apple orchard, producing some of the finest Colorado juice and cider.

• The orchard has evolved into a community hub, offering glamping, camping, a restaurant, a music venue, and a you-pick garden.

• The owner, Jeff Schwartz, emphasizes sustainability, vertical integration, and building a strong community.