Growing great strawberries is in our family
Since 1940, we’ve been farming with care and consistency—and with real gratitude for the people who choose our berries.
Meet the family behind the berries
Tigchelaar Berry Farms has been family-run since 1940, with deep roots right here in Hamilton–Niagara. From our grandfather’s early fields in Stoney Creek to today’s farm in Vineland, growing fruit has always been part of our family story. And strawberries have been at the heart of it.
What matters most to us is giving you the freshest, most delicious berries you’ll ever taste. The kind you’re excited to serve at your table or stock on your shelves. Whether you’re filling your fridge or partnering with us as a retailer, you can count on great berries and friendly people who care deeply about what ends up in your basket.
Our Story
1940
Clarence Tigchelaar became the first Tigchelaar to farm in Ontario after immigrating from the Netherlands with his family. On Ridge Road in Stoney Creek, he grew apples, pears, cherries, grapes, and strawberries under the name Crown Hill Orchards, selling much of his crop at Centre Mall in Hamilton.
Clarence’s son Rick grew up on the farm and later began working alongside his father after studying agriculture for two years at the University of Guelph.
1965
Rick Tigchelaar purchased 100 acres of farmland on Hendershot Road in Binbrook, Ontario.
Along with his wife Anne and their five children, Rick grew a wide range of fruits and vegetables and became especially well known for strawberries and tomatoes.
1971
The first year of pick-your-own strawberries and vegetables began!
As an early pioneer of the pick-your-own format, Tigchelaar Berry Farms quickly became a go-to destination in Hamilton for strawberries, tomatoes, peppers, and many other vegetables.
Early 1990s
Dan and Jeff Tigchelaar, sons of Rick and Anne, joined the business and soon took over the family farm. During this time, Tigchelaar Berry Farms expanded both its pick-your-own offerings and its apple acreage in Binbrook.
1994
The family purchased its first farm in Vineland. Strawberries are still grown on this land today, just around the corner from the farm’s head office.
2000
The family purchased its first farm in Vineland. Strawberries are still grown on this land today, just around the corner from the farm’s head office.
2001
The pick-your-own strawberry operation opened in Jordan, where it continues to welcome visitors each June.
2013
The Red Barn Farm Market and Bakery opened its doors. Operated over the years by different Tigchelaar family members, The Red Barn has grown into a community hub—offering locally grown produce, fresh baking, frozen yogurt, and, of course, freshly picked Tigchelaar strawberries.
2015
Dan’s son Matt and Jeff’s son Aaron began working on the farm, representing the Tigchelaar family’s fourth generation of farmers!
2023
An acre of high-tunnel greenhouse was constructed, and long-cane raspberries were introduced to the farm.
Today
Tigchelaar Berry Farms has grown to the point where its strawberries can be found not only at its pick-your-own location, but also at major grocery chains, independent grocers, farmers’ markets, restaurants, and farm stands throughout the province.
Our story, in pictures
Our mission is to give you the freshest, most delicious berries you’ll ever taste.
At Tigchelaar Berry Farms, we see…
Berries That Bring Joy
Fresh, flavourful, and irresistibly good—bringing families together for little moments that matter.
A Team That Grows Together
Hardworking people rolling up their sleeves, pushing forward, and growing something they’re proud of—together.
Partnerships Built on Trust
Unmatched care, reliability, and real support—helping retailers stock with confidence, time and time again.
A Higher Standard
More trust, more care and real partnerships that go beyond the transaction—setting a new bar for quality and reliability.
Put People First
We treat everyone with fairness and kindness, no matter what happens. We take responsibility, speak honestly and look out for each other. Because a great harvest is about more than the berries—it’s about the people who make it happen, working together with care and respect.
Bring Your Best Everyday
Farming takes grit. We work hard, stay patient, and keep going—even when things get tough—to make every harvest the best it can be.
Work Smart, Work Fast
We stay organized and always look for better ways to deliver the freshest berries. By solving problems early and trying new things, we keep everything running smoothly and on time.
Own the Details
Every role matters, and the little things add up. We take pride in our work, focus on the details and speak up when something’s not right—because great berries come from the care we put into each one.
A team you can count on
The people who make Tigchelaar Berry Farms what it is.
Jeff Tigchelaar
Owner
Dan Tigchelaar
Owner
Aaron Tigchelaar
Sales Manager
Matt Tigchelaar
Head Grower
Kate Buist
Accounting and HR Manager
Annie Sterenberg
HR Administrator
Come work with us
Working at Tigchelaar Berry Farms means being part of the team behind the scenes—managing crops, operating equipment, and helping lead a busy, professional farm operation. It’s hands-on, and when it’s busy, it’s busy—but it’s never boring. If you don’t mind working hard and want to be part of a team you genuinely enjoy working with, we’d love to hear from you. Send us an email and tell us a bit about yourself.
Email Us