John and Donna Butler, Omak, are purchasing the former Old Flour Mill building, Okanogan, and will expand their American Produce Express company, according to an announcement from The Economic Alliance.
     The building will be occupied primarily by American Produce Express LLC and will enable the Butlers to expand sales and employment significantly, according to the announcement.
     The company was started in March 2000 and has operated out of its present cramped facilities on East Pine next to the Old Flour Mill building since 2002.
     American Produce Express employs 13, but expansion plans are to increase that by five or more in the year ahead, according to the announcement.
     John Butler said the company “provides farm fresh quality produce in new and innovative ways while promoting and sustaining the ‘family farm’ lifestyle.”
     Company trucks regularly deliver small packages of sliced apples and other fresh fruits to school cafeterias across Washington and Idaho.
     Financing for the project was provided by the North Central Washington Business Loan Fund through its association with the state Department of Community, Trade and Economic Development.
     Lew Blakeney, certified business adviser with the Small Business Development Center for Okanogan County, assisted the Butlers with development of their business plan and cash flow projections necessary for the project.
     “This transaction is a primary example of bringing community partners together for economic development in Okanogan County,” said Roni Holder-Diefenbach, executive director of The Economic Alliance.
     The Small Business Development Center is co-sponsored by The Economic Alliance, the U.S. Small Business Administration and Washington State University.
     More information is available from The Economic Alliance office, 826-5107. Additional information on American Produce Express is at 826-5379 or www.americanproduceexpress.com.