If you’re in eastern Ohio, be sure to take a weekend excursion to buy fresh, local produce and fun gifts at the beautiful new retail store built by Witmer’s Inc. and Lester Building Systems LLC at White House Fruit Farm, a regionally-known produce farm that’s been in the Hull family since 1813.
Considered one of the largest farm markets in the state, the business is a year-round destination for all types of fruits and vegetables. It is best known for its 35 varieties of apples. To add to the experience, White House Fruit Farm hosts many events throughout the year which include horse-drawn wagon rides, petting zoos, outside food vendors, music, 5Ks and scarecrow-building contests.
The family are so pleased with the project, reports Debbie Pifer, who owns the business with her dad, brother and sister.
“They were prompt, efficient and did exactly what we wanted,” she says of Witmer’s and Lester Buildings. “This is a quality product, and our second Lester Building. The buildings look wonderful. They’re going to hold up well and they’re going to function as we want them to function.”
That longevity, beauty and utility is important, since the family plans to continue growing the White House Fruit Farm business for years to come. In the past five years, sales have increased 20 percent.
To support their growing business, the family realized they needed a bigger building to showcase their gifts and decorative produce (such as gourds). They knew they wanted a quality building that would last, and also they wanted a warm, inviting space for their guests. They immediately contacted Witmer’s Inc. who had built a Lester Building for them in the past.
Once the family sat down and listed their most-wanted details and features, the experts at Witmer’s Inc., using Lester Building Systems’ proprietary design software, Improv®, were able to incorporate those elements. Then the family collaborated with Witmer’s Inc. to fine-tune the design by balancing their wish lists with their real-life budget.
The Lester Building was worth the wait. Pifer appreciated Witmer’s patience and cooperation to work around delays caused by the local electric provider.
Constructed over a six-month span, the building features Lester Building Systems’ patented Eclipse Roof System®, concrete floors, office space, ample storage areas, two decorative cupolas, Hayfield vinyl windows and 16-foot high ceilings. Pifer says her favorite features include the bright white steel paneling inside and the spacious, inviting porch that extends across the side of the building to house customer seating.
She also loves that the color and design of the new Lester Building replicates that of the White House Fruit Farm business logo and of other important buildings on the property, including the home in which she was raised.
Already the new Lester Building is driving revenues. It quadrupled the space of a previous retail building and allows for plenty of space for storage, displays and sales.
Plan your visit to White House Fruit Farm near Canfield, Ohio. It’s located halfway between Cleveland, Ohio and Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. Try their famous blueberry donuts or stock up on a variety of juicy, crunchy apples. As their website puts it, “We invite you to make family memories with us.” TripAdvisor commentators agree.
Since 1947, Lester Building Systems has been constructing customized pole barns that stand the test of time. Contact us to learn more about how we can collaboratively bring your dream building to life.
